Across the world, human rights abuses, stigma, and discrimination fuel the HIV epidemic. But the law and access to justice have the potential to slow the spread of HIV and reduce its impact.
In July 2012, a group of experts and statespersons established by the United Nations Development Program—the Global Commission on HIV and the Law—released the report HIV and the Law: Risks, Rights, and Health. Their report examines where and how human rights abuses occur and how new law, court decisions, and better legal enforcement can address the epidemic.
This briefing paper highlights the report’s findings about access to essential medicines. It offers information and language that may be useful for advocacy, campaigning, and lobbying.