UNAIDS PCB Thematic Session – HIV in Emergencies NGO Observer Statement   We want to take this opportunity to thank you for today’s very timely thematic segment and a special thanks to Noi and Annie for sharing their incredible stories with us. This statement is made on behalf of a loosely formed coalition of the non-governmental organizations of Stop AIDS Alliance, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, and the Interagency Coalition on AIDS and Development. We are pleased to see the increasing focus on HIV in emergencies, where risk and vulnerability to HIV is often increased. Reaching the 90-90-90 will require us to work effectively to reach those affected by emergencies with … Read more →

By around 1998 in community health centres in Toronto, service providers found an increasing number  of Immigrants and refugees, including those without formal legal status in Canada living with HIV /AIDS  (IRN-PHAS) were facing treatment access barriers and presenting late for care. These barriers, all of which continue to exist 16 years later include, but are not limited to: Lack of access to medications without documentation of legal residency Fear of deportation Complexity of system & difficulty to understand and negotiate access Multiple dimensions of systemic discrimination which compounds vulnerabilities Marginalized status, stigma and fear preventing access to information & services & self-advocacy Lack of culturally competent and appropriate legal, … Read more →