The presentation of this document was on December 13, 2001 and was very well attended. There were over 76 participants including the media who engaged in active discussion and made suggestions for the ‘next steps’.

On April 2, 2002 the Sub-committee hosted a consultative meeting for the Caribbean Regional Project on HIV / AIDS Ethical, Legal and Human Rights. The CARICOM Secretariat with CIDA Support is in the process of planning a regional project to address the ethical, legal and human rights aspects of HIV / AIDS in the Caribbean. As part of this process the consultant asked the National AIDS Committee to coordinate their first visit with stakeholders in Jamaica. The meeting was very well attended with a wide representation of persons from a variety of backgrounds i.e. human rights, private sector, corrections, non-governmental body’s etc.

The review of ‘legislation, legal and ethical issues’ presented in December 2001 remains a much sought after document and has been submitted to the Office of the Attorney General by the Chief Medical Officer for comment, input and guidance. A National appraisal of Jamaica’s progress on addressing issues of stigma, discrimination, legal and ethical issues were presented in Tobago at a CARICOM, Regional Conference in June 2002. Although, Jamaica has made progress in addressing some of these issues much remains to be done. A new strategic plan will need to be developed to adequately change or address issues that perpetuate stigma and discrimination, especially men who have sex with men and those involved in commercial sex work.

Report for HIV/AIDS Prevention
and Control Program

Health Promotion and Protection
Division of Ministry of Health

HIV/AIDS Legal, Ethical
and Human Rights Issues in Jamaica