Engaging with parliamentarians on HIV and the Law: A practical manual for UNDP Country Office and Regional Staff

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Engaging with parliamentarians on HIV and the Law: A practical manual for UNDP Country Office and Regional Staff

December 4, 2015


The success of public health programmes in stopping the spread of HIV depends on their ability to engage people living with HIV and key populations most impacted by the vius and marginalized in society (including men who have sex with men, transgender people, sex workers, people who use drugs, prisoners and migrants). Such success is also incumbent on acting to protect and empower women, children and youth. Evidence shows that HIV programmes that are grounded in human rights and empower key populations are cost effective and can significantly reduce HIV transmission — saving lives and money. Legal environments that secure and protect the rights and dignity of people living with HIV and key populations, and that ensure access to confidential HIV prevention, treatment and care services, positively impact
national HIV responses and can be a powerful tool for social change. However, laws, practices, and social and cultural norms that perpetuate ignorance, stigma, discrimination and marginalization of people living with HIV or key populations, or that criminalize or punish their behaviour, can significantly hinder the HIV response.