Ending HIV Stigma Through Fact-Based HIV Reporting
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Advocates are urging media professionals to adopt fact-based HIV reporting to help end the stigma surrounding the human immunodeficiency virus. During the recent “Visibility is Key” media dialogue, community leaders emphasized the importance of accurate narratives over fear-driven stories.
“The virus is indeed spreading, but so are the misconceptions,” said Malou Quintos, advisor for community support at the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), underscoring the critical role of responsible journalism in shaping public perception.
Misconceptions Persist Despite Progress
While media coverage of HIV has improved over the years, harmful language still appears. Officials reported encountering terms like “AIDS victim,” “homosexual disease,” and portrayals of HIV as a form of punishment. Quintos warned that such descriptions only deepen stigma and misinformation.
Advocates clarified during the dialogue that HIV is not a death sentence but a manageable medical condition. They highlighted that free HIV-related services are available, yet many hesitate to seek help due to fear of judgment and discrimination.
Legal Framework Against Stigma and Discrimination
Under Republic Act No. 11166, or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act, stigma arises when individuals are devalued or treated less humanely because of perceived undesirable traits. Community members noted that when stigma manifests in actions, it leads to discrimination, further marginalizing those affected.
How Stigma Blocks Solutions
Headlines framing HIV as a moral failing have silenced many and made it harder to reach effective solutions, local leaders said. Dr. Stella Flores of the Pilipinas Shell Foundation stressed that HIV is often mislabeled as a “gay disease,” but in reality, anyone can contract the virus.
Transmission occurs only through unprotected penetrative sex, infected blood or blood products, and mother-to-child transfer. Flores emphasized that casual contact like hugging or sharing utensils does not spread HIV.
Moving Forward With Accurate Coverage
Flores hopes the media will advance by providing accurate coverage, increasing access to treatment, and integrating comprehensive HIV care into communities. Progress, advocates agreed, depends largely on the media’s willingness to shift from stigma-driven stories to solution-focused reporting.
Journalists are encouraged to use practical tools developed in consultation with advocacy groups and affected communities to guide responsible HIV reporting. These resources aim to empower media to tell stories that educate, reduce fear, and promote inclusivity.
For more news and updates on HIV awareness and stigma, visit Filipinokami.com.
