STATUS OF STIGMA AND DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WORKERS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS IN THE WORKPLACE IN BINH DUONG

Abstract

After more than 20 years of HIV/AIDS prevention and control with great efforts, HIV/AIDS is still one of Vietnam’s most challenging and concerning public health problems. Vietnam is facing significant challenges related to society’s attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS. Stigma and discrimination are taking place, which prevents vulnerable groups of workers from enjoying basic human rights to health care and social security, and is hindering the progress of HIV/AIDS prevention and control. In this paper, the author discussed the reality and causes of stigma and discrimination against workers living with HIV/AIDS in the workplace. Secondary data analysis and qualitative research were used in the study, in-depth interviews with 4 workers infected with HIV/AIDS were conducted. The results show that inadequate understanding of HIV/AIDS, misconceptions by employers about the capacity of people living with HIV/AIDS, as well as unclear communication messages cause these workers to face stigma, discrimination, job loss, or even self-stigmatization.