Statement by our Executive Director on Zero Discrimination Day

Every 1st March every year, we commemorate Zero Discrimination Day, and this year, we unite under the global theme: “People First.”

What does “People First” mean? According to UNAIDS, it means that to protect everyone’s health, we must first protect everyone’s rights. It is a call to recognize that behind every statistic is a human being who deserves respect. We cannot end the AIDS epidemic if we allow stigma to create barriers to care. Putting “People First” means ensuring our health systems and communities are safe, inclusive spaces for all.

Yet, here in South Sudan, stigma and discrimination continue to harm our people in our communities, our workplaces, and even in health facilities.

The burden remains heavy. According to the South Sudan Stigma Index Survey, many of our brothers and sisters still face deep-rooted exclusion. Because of the fear of discrimination, many people delay HIV testing or treatment. In our context, stigma often stems from the misconception that HIV is a moral failing. This leads to “silent exclusion,” where people are isolated from their own families and social support. This discrimination damages lives, affects mental health, and slows down our efforts to end AIDS.

As a practical response, the Network of AIDS and Health Service Organizations and allied partners have launched a Primary Prevention Communication Campaign.

This campaign aims to:

•           Reduce HIV-related stigma and discrimination

•           Promote accurate information about HIV

•           Encourage HIV testing and treatment

•           Support respectful and inclusive communities

Starting immediately, we request anyone who may have been discriminated against due to their HIV status, or anyone who has inquiries on HIV Prevention, to reach out to us. Please call us at 0920115522. This is our toll-free number. We are here to listen, to support, and to put your health and rights first.

Women, young people, and key populations living with HIV often face double or triple discrimination. This must end. On this Zero Discrimination Day, we call on the government, health workers, and traditional leaders to stand with us.

HIV is not a crime. Discrimination is the real barrier. By putting People First, we can end stigma. Together, we can protect lives. Together we can end AIDS.