HIV and AIDS : related stigma and discrimination in Nepal
Document type: mthesis
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Abstract:
This thesis highlights the result of a review of available international and Nepalese literature to a) explore the contributing factors and manifestations of HIV and AIDS-related stigma and discrimination and b) explore the evidence of relevance and effectiveness of interventions in reducing stigma and discrimination. HIV and AIDS-related stigma and discrimination exist in all level of Nepalese society. Rejection, isolation, avoidance, denial, participation restrictions are common manifestations. PLHIV are not only stigmatized by others but they also stigmatise themselves due to perceived stigma or experience of discrimination, which can have serious consequences, such as low self esteem, depression and self isolation. The study shows that fear of contagion, negative attitudes towards PLHIV, and lack of anti discriminatory laws are major contributing factors to stigma and discrimination. Lack of or inadequate knowledge escalates the fear. HIV is associated with behaviours that are considered illegal or forbidden in most societies such as extra-marital sex, sex work, drug use and sex between men. This adds to the disease-specific stigma and, due to these reasons, PLHIV are often rejected or denied of their fundamental rights. The impact of HIV and AIDS-related stigma and discrimination is not limited to lowering the quality of life of PLHIV, but it also is a barrier in responding to HIV epidemic effectively. Fear of discrimination prevents people from utilizing HIV prevention services such as BCC, VCT, STI services and prevents people from seeking treatment for AIDS or disclosing their status openly. This increases further HIV transmission and exacerbates impacts of HIV and AIDS. Stigma is one of the serious obstacles towards achieving the goal of universal access of HIV prevention and care. Reviewed interventions in the international literature highlight the need of multidimensional strategies to address HIV and AIDS-related stigma and discrimination through three main approaches; reducing and preventing stigma, challenging discrimination at institutional level and protecting and promoting human rights. Nepal is responding to stigma by implementing interventions such as service provision, media campaigns, empowering and mobilizing PLHIV etc. However, there is a still big gap in the current interventions. It is recommended that Nepal should respond to stigma and discrimination in integrated approaches by empowering PLHIV, working with and mobilizing family and community, health care settings, reforming laws and legislation, developing workplace polices, and imparting knowledge through IEC and media.
Authors:
Rai, B.
Country:
Nepal
Category:
Research
Department:
Development Policy & Practice
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Keywords:
HIV and AIDS
,
disease prevention and control
Language:
eng
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
PAGE:
viii, 60
Year:
2008
Region:
South Asia
Right:
© 2008 Rai
Subject:
Health and Nutrition
Title:
HIV and AIDS : related stigma and discrimination in Nepal
Training:
Master of Public Health / International Course in Health Development (ICHD)