This fact sheet examines how bad laws are obstructing the global HIV response, identifying several areas, including HIV transmission, at-risk populations, women and youth, and access to HIV treatment.

Document Highlights

• More than 60 countries specifically criminalise HIV transmission. This includes Canada, 37 of the 50 United States, 27 countries in Africa, 13 in Asia and the Pacific, 11 in Latin America and 9 in Europe.
• More than 100 countries criminalise some aspect of sex work.
• Customary practices in Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East such as early marriage and genital mutilation increase risk of HIV exposure.