At the 2006 United Nations High Level Meeting on HIV/AIDS, world leaders reaffirmed that the full realization of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all is an essential element in the global response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Yet, 25 years into the AIDS epidemic, this essential element remains the missing piece in the fight against AIDS. This document, endorsed by the Center for HIV Law and Policy, was published by the Law and Health Initiative of the Open Society Institute's Public Health Program with input from HIV human rights specialists from around the globe. It sets out 10 reasons why law and human rights should occupy the center of the global HIV/AIDS struggle.
CHLP fights stigma and discrimination at the intersection of HIV, race, health status, disability, class, sexuality and gender identity and expression, with a focus on criminal and public health systems. As part of this work, we support movement building that amplifies the power of individuals and communities to mobilize for change rooted in racial, gender and economic justice. We do this through legal advocacy, high-impact policy initiatives, and creation of cross-issue partnerships, networks, and resources.