Feminine noun: the act of separating or distinguishing two or more beings or things on the basis of certain criteria or distinctive characteristics.
The link between discrimination and health inequalities
Over the years, discrimination has taken many forms. Some of its forms are world-famous and easily recognisable, such as discrimination based on gender or skin colour. Others, however, are more subtle, such as discrimination based on the language spoken, or discrimination linked to a person's state of health. Unfortunately, such discrimination is sometimes encouraged by certain laws and policies, violating human rights and hindering access to HIV prevention, screening, treatment and care.
I love my neighbours, I respect our differences and I embrace that diversity
1st March this year is the date chosen to celebrate Zero Discrimination Day 2024. It marks the tenth anniversary of this celebration. Ten years since the fight to respect the rights of every human being was celebrated (but the fight against discrimination has been around much longer). This year's theme is "Protecting health means protecting human rights", with a focus on HIV. At CKLE, we are keen to use our channels and resources to fight for all the causes that contribute to improving the lives of all minorities and human beings in general.
One of the main causes of discrimination is misinformation. Dangerous misconceptions about the risk of HIV transmission have been spread, with harmful consequences for people exposed or faced with generalised risk factors for HIV infection, who are, for example, unfairly prosecuted.
Let's take a few seconds to inform ourselves. We have compiled a list of activists and organisations committed to defending the rights of HIV-positive people and providing essential information to raise awareness and educate.
Andrea Mestre : President of the Movement Against Serophobia Association, Expert in Empowering Voices
mcs.sida : Mouvement against Sérophobia
UNAIDS : Global action to end the AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals
Discrimination, in its many forms, deprives individuals of their fundamental rights and hinders their full participation in society. Whether based on health status, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability or other individual characteristics, it undermines the fundamental values of equality and justice.
By promoting diversity and inclusion, we can build a fairer, more caring world where everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential. This "Zero Discrimination" day is an opportunity to reflect on the many facets of discrimination and how, at our level, we are able to make our contribution to the edifice of total social inclusion. Let's commit to promoting unity and diversity. By celebrating our differences, we strengthen the fabric of society and create a world in which every individual is respected and valued. We must break the chains of discrimination and build a more equitable future for all. Today, together, we can achieve this.
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