Human rights and fundamental freedoms are the birthright of all human beings; their protection and promotion is the first responsibility of Governments

(Vienna Declaration and
Programme of Action 1993)

The core of human rights is the postulate that all human beings have equal rights. This has been challenged by denying human rights to people living with, and/or affected by HIV and AIDS. Responses to HIV and AIDS have infringed civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights. In particular, the violation of the prohibition of discrimination, which is at the heart of the main UN human rights instruments, has been the catalyst for infringements on other fundamental rights and freedoms.

INTERNATIONAL GUIDELINES ON HIV/AIDS AND HUMAN RIGHTS

The United Nations has recognised the pertinence of human rights law in the context of HIV and AIDS. This is strongly reflected in the UNAIDS and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) International Guidelines on HIV/AIDS and Human Rights.

The Guidelines are firmly anchored within a framework of existing human rights principles, norms and standards contained in various regional and international human rights instruments. They provide authoritative interpretations of human rights standards in the context of HIV and AIDS and aim to assist governments in translating human rights principles into practical observance in the context of HIV and AIDS. Click here to download our fact file on the Guidelines.

DECLARATION OF COMMITMENT ON HIV/AIDS

In June 2001, at the first UN Special Session on HIV/AIDS, all UN Member States adopted and supported the Declaration of Commitment on HIV/AIDS. Although not binding, the Declaration is a clear statement by governments that they are committed to taking the necessary actions to achieve set goals and objectives with the aim of "stopping AIDS". As such it is a very important advocacy tool. Click here to download our fact files on the Declaration.

MORE INFO

Fact files on UK and Human Rights

Fact file on the International Guidelines

Fact files on the Declaration of Commitment on HIV/AIDS