This publication presents an overview of discussions, evidence and proposals contributed to the Stigma-AIDS eForurm by both experts and people living with HIV and AIDS, and moderated by Health and Development Networks (HDNet). Three major areas are covered: HIV stigma and place, including the work place, health care services and religious settings; HIV stigma and people living with HIV/AIDS, addressing self-stigma and injection drug users; HIV stigma and society, with a focus on the role of the media. Each topic includes a brief commentary and sets out specific recommendations. It is aimed at individuals, organisations and policy makers willing to learn about practical approaches to reduce HIV/AIDS-related stigma
The mass media have the potential to provide a platform for discussion, communication and education on HIV and AIDS, giving a voice to people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA), challenging stigma and discrimination, lobbying policy makers and building partnerships and capacity through sharing and transferring skills and expertise. However, mass media can also disseminate misleading messages, while HIV/AIDS communication competes with other topics for broadcasting time and audiences. This report presents three case studies of effective and creative use of the media in South Africa: Soul City and Soul Buddyz adopt an 'edutainment' approach, aiming both to educate and entertain; the Community Health Media Trust produces a series of programmes addressing issues concerning people with HIV/AIDS; Takalani makes television and radio programmes, to encourage small children to develop self-esteem, offer positive models and destigmatise PLWHA. Detailing the lessons learned from these experiences, the report looks at how target audiences are chosen, how partnerships are formed, how topics and ideas are developed and what ethical issues arise
In many communities, stigma and fear of discrimination often exacerbate the impact of the AIDS epidemic and prevent people living with HIV (PLWH) from accessing support services. This document, commissioned by SANASO, and incorporating inputs from faith-based organisations, union representatives, people living with HIV and the media, examines how to address stigma and discrimination in key settings of social life, such as the family, the workplace, faith-based organisations, and the media. It suggests good practices, policies or behavioural changes which should foster a supportive environment for PLWH and improve the general response to HIV and AIDS
This report explores the causes, manifestations and consequences of HIV and AIDS related stigma in sub-Saharan Africa. Based on a study in Ethiopia, Tanzania and Zambia, it acknowledges stigma as complex, caused by incomplete knowledge, fears of death and disease and sexual transmission. Stigma is also influenced by socio-economic status, age and gender. The report also discusses in detail how people living with HIV react to stigma, and also how they and their families/ friends develop strategies to cope with stigma. Recommendations include the need to provide safe spaces to discuss the values and beliefs about sex, morality and death, find a common language to talk about stigma and ensure a contextually appropriate and ethically responsible role for people living with HIV
A consice handbook to help journalists cover HIV/AIDS in an effective and responsible manner. Provides South African-based contacts, websites and basic information on a wide range of HIV-related issues
This booklet describes the importance of disclosure for people who are living with HIV. It covers the basics of effective counselling in the context of dealing with issues around disclosure. It then discusses the process of disclosure, possible consequences, partial, involuntary and non-disclosure, and media issues