The Role of Stigma and Discrimination in Increasing the Vulnerability of Children and Youth Infected with and Affected by HIV/AIDS - Research Report

This report illustrates the powerful and negative effects of stigma on those affected by HIV/AIDS. The stories from children are particularly powerful. They remind us all of the human tragedies that lie behind the statistics. HIV/AIDS touches us all in some way – through family, friends, or communities. Addressing the HIV/AIDS pandemic requires a strong and coordinated response from all sectors of society - government, NGOs, churches, communities and children, as well as the international community. But this response has to incorporate changes in attitude and behaviour at the personal level, if they are to be successful.