Ending overly-broad criminalisation of HIV non-disclosure, exposure and

transmission

Patrick EbaHuman Rights and Law Division UNAIDS

Outline of presentation The problem

Process of guidance note

Content of guidance note

Recent developments

Current situation on criminalisation of HIV

Source: GNP+ & HJN, 2013

Problem with current laws and prosecutions

• Disregard for science of HIV– Prosecutions for biting or spitting – Criminalisation of non-disclosure in absence of actual

exposure or transmission– Prosecutions in spite of condom use or low viral load

• Disregard for legal and justice principles– No mental culpability– No proof – Disproportionate penalties

• Negative impact on HIV response

The need for clearer guidance on criminalisation

• Conflicting judicial decisions on criminalisation

• Legislative processes/changes

• Prosecutorial Guidelines in the United Kingdom

• Growing activism by CSOs, people living with HIV and the voice of criminalisation survivors

Towards UNAIDS’ guidance note: Reconciling science and law

2010-2012:• 2 research and evidence papers

• Experts Meeting, 31 August – 2 Sept 2011, Geneva

• Policy Consultation, 14-15 Feb 2012, Oslo

UNAIDS Guidance Note, 2013• Restrict criminal law to

truly blameworthy cases

• Uphold criminal justice principles

• Use best scientific and medical evidence

Key recommendations • Harm• Risk • Mental culpability • Defences

- Disclosure- Condom use/ low viral load

• Proof • Penalties

Recent progress

• Legislation

• Courts

• Prosecutorial guidelines

• Engaging scientists

• Renewed activism

Rosemary and others needs us!

Thank You!