As we approach three decades of living with HIV in our community, effective treatments for HIV were first approved almost two decades ago and the International Guidelines on HIV/AIDS and Human Rights has been in existence for half of the HIV pandemic. Yet discrimination and inequalities continue to impact on the lives of people living with HIV.
We, members of the ACT community, affirm the rights of people living with, and affected by, HIV to be free and equal in dignity and rights.
We urge governments, organisations and individuals to ensure the human rights of people affected by HIV through the following measures:
1. To fulfil the international commitment to universal access to anti-retroviral treatment by 2010
Access to essential health care is not a luxury exclusive to those that can afford it. Despite the Millennium Development Goals, and G8 and G20 commitments to ensure universal access to HIV treatment, by the end of 2008 only 42% of individuals needing treatment were receiving it.
Governments must be held to fulfil their international obligations, and to ensure all economic, political and technical barriers to treatment are eradicated.
2. To respect the right to move freely and to seek asylum regardless of HIV status
With the United States removing HIV as a barrier to entry, a milestone has passed, yet many more countries still restrict entry based on HIV status or a priori refuse permanent residence to people living with HIV.
These laws and regulations violate the right of freedom of movement for people living with HIV, and propagate the myth that people living with HIV are a threat to the health and safety of the public.
Despite international human rights obligations, 52 countries globally including Australia have unnecessary and discriminatory travel restrictions on people with HIV. These countries must be held to fulfil their obligations.
3. End all discrimination against people living with HIV
Many people face discrimination in their daily lives due to real or perceived HIV status, from colleagues, neighbours, administrators, service providers, governments and family members. Many fear discrimination or violence if their HIV status is disclosed.
We commit to stand up for the rights of people living with HIV and demand an end to discrimination.