Ten years ago, on March 1, the global community marked the first Zero Discrimination Day, established by UNAIDS to promote equality and justice for all, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or status in society. This day reminds us to fight discrimination in all its forms and to strive for a world where everyone has equal opportunities and rights. Virusoff encourages you to stand up and support the campaigns taking place in your country today. Every voice in this struggle is important, especially in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) region, where the situation is still difficult.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 1.4 million people are living with HIV in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. In Russia alone, according to the Center for AIDS Prevention and Control, the number of new HIV infections increased by 10% over 2023. However, due to fear of rejection, stigma, and stigmatization, people are often afraid to disclose their status, even to those close to them, and to accept necessary therapy and support. MSM also face high levels of discrimination and stigmatization, which hinders access to HIV prevention and treatment services. Disclosure of HIV status and subsequent discrimination in the workplace or during schooling is not uncommon: a person faces dismissal, pay cuts, or denial of promotion at work, or, in the case of schools or universities, restrictions on access to education and participation in educational activities.
According to reports by ILGA-Europe and Amnesty International, EECA remains one of the most dangerous regions for LGBTIQ activists as well. In countries such as Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Russia, laws and policies towards the community create a climate of fear and violence. LGBTIQ people face physical attacks, beatings, and threats of violence because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Often, they are also subjected to verbal abuse, threats, and harassment. Such discrimination causes stress, anxiety, depression, and other psychological problems, which hurt people’s health and well-being.
Sex workers in Eastern Europe and Central Asia often face discrimination and rights violations. According to a Human Rights Watch report, legal restrictions and negative social attitudes due to the nature of their work create barriers to accessing health and social services. This leads to isolation, poor mental health, and loss of support from family and friends. This key population is at increased risk of violence, exploitation and discrimination by employers, clients, and law enforcement, and countries’ laws fail to protect their rights and create impunity for those who commit violations against sex workers.
Zero Discrimination Day reminds us to fight for the rights and respect of all people, especially those who find themselves in vulnerable situations. It calls for solidarity and the fight against discrimination in all its forms. It is a time for solidarity, support, and promotion of equality, regardless of gender, work, sexual orientation, status, or other characteristics. Let us remember this at all times.