The study shows that stigma and discrimination continue to create serious barriers to accessing healthcare services, respecting human dignity, and realizing human rights.
According to the global Stigma Index report (Stigma Index 2.0), nearly 25% of respondents reported experiencing stigma, including instances of discrimination in healthcare settings, which undermines trust and access to critically important services.
Moreover, 85% of people living with HIV experience internal stigma, which often leads to changes in their behavior—many conceal their HIV status or discontinue treatment due to fear of judgment and rejection.
Discrimination continues to negatively impact:
- HIV testing;
- access to preventive services, including pre-exposure prophylaxis;
- treatment;
- access to healthcare services;
- the realization of fundamental rights;
- the worsening of the AIDS epidemic.
UNAIDS' recommendations for overcoming these challenges include the following steps:
1. Elimination of discriminatory norms
Countries should review their laws and policies, abolishing those norms that discriminate against or criminalize people living with HIV and those at risk, including laws related to sex work, drug use, and same-sex relationships. Experts emphasize that such laws hinder access to healthcare services.
2. Protection of the right to healthcare
- ensure confidentiality;
- train healthcare personnel and implement a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination;
- cease mandatory HIV testing;
- provide quality and humane care for all.
3. Reducing stigma in communities
- debunk myths and misinformation about HIV;
- support educational and informational initiatives;
- increase empathy and understanding.
4. Support for community-led initiatives
- fund organizations created by people living with HIV;
- ensure their active participation in decision-making processes;
- strengthen mutual aid networks;
- protect the right of communities to undertake HIV response measures.
It is important to note that March 1st is celebrated as the international "Zero Discrimination" day by the UN.
In 2026, UNAIDS calls on governments, healthcare workers, employers, and society as a whole to listen to the voices of people affected by HIV and to act based on facts. The goal is to create a safe space within healthcare systems where everyone can get tested, receive treatment, and care without fear of discrimination.
