In supporting the United Nations' World AIDS Day (1 December 2005), Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC), Mr. Raymond TANG said, "HIV remains one of the biggest social, economic and health challenges in the world. But with testing and proper treatment, many people are now able to halt or delay the damage caused by HIV. People with HIV/AIDS should be treated with respect and should not be inhibited from participating in everyday life."


"In preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS, it is essential to ensure people living with HIV have access to treatment and proper care," Mr. TANG said. "Fears about family rejection, job loss, and prejudice impede the effectiveness of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. Stigma and discrimination discourage those who are infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS from seeking needed services because it may mean exposing their HIV status to their families, workplace colleagues, or community," he added.


"Fears about being shunned by society remains a very real concern still for people living with HIV/AIDS today. Hong Kong's Disability Discrimination Ordinance provides protection against discrimination on the ground of disability, and that includes people with HIV/AIDS or suspected HIV infection. As the government, NGOs and concern groups have joined forces in fighting AIDS, the public must also be reminded that fighting discrimination is an essential dimension in promoting the World AIDS Day Campaign."


"Promotion of acceptance is an integral component of keeping the AIDS epidemic in check. The principle goes beyond fighting discrimination and calls for acceptance of people living with HIV/AIDS in our community," Mr. TANG concluded.


Enquiry: Ms. Mariana LAW 21062226