Earlier this month, the Thai Women Living with HIV Foundation (TWLHF), UNAIDS Thailand, Chiang Mai University and partners launched the Thailand Stigma Index 2.0 to commemorate Zero Discrimination Day. The Stigma Index 2.0 explores stigma and discrimination among people living with HIV in Thailand between 2022-2023.
The study included people living with HIV and key populations in all the provincial network, reflecting the experiences of more than 2500 respondents across 24 provinces. TWLHF led the research, working to ensure that the experiences of women were well reflected for the first time. The process engaged with the broader community, including healthcare providers, policymakers, and civil society organizations, to foster a supportive environment for people living with HIV and to address stigma and discrimination at various levels.
The results showed progress from the first stigma index conducted in Thailand in 2009-2010. However, more efforts are still needed to address stigma and discrimination and improve quality of life for people living with HIV in Thailand.
“Addressing stigma and discrimination is key to ending AIDS. At the national and local level there are still issues to be dealt with. Stigma and discrimination lead to people not getting tested, not accessing care and not adhering to treatment,” – Nipakorn Nanta, Chairman of the Thai Women Living with HIV Foundation (TWLHF).
The report concludes with tailored recommendations, such as increased knowledge of U=U, improved public communication, family and social engagement, enhanced healthcare workforce training, and a focus on human rights in laws and policies for key populations.
Watipa has been proud to provide technical and design guidance in the development of the report and look forward to supporting the team in translating research findings into advocacy and policy briefs in 2025.
Read more here.