EVERYBODY wishes to enjoy good health and avoid the suffering caused by diseases. It is well known that some diseases can be completely prevented or controlled. While medical doctors and health professionals can help patients manage some diseases, they can only relieve the symptoms of major illnesses such as HIV, diabetes, and certain types of hepatitis.
Whatever the disease may be, nobody wishes to suffer from it, so they try to spend their property and assets on treatment. Hence, individuals should not discriminate against patients with any disease, as they are members of society just like those in good health. No one should take pride in their health condition, as it can change at any time.
Communities are essential to the sustainability of the HIV response and global health efforts, remaining steadfast in their mission to ensure that all people living with and affected by HIV are treated with dignity and respect. However, for more than 40 years, they have faced adversity – stigma, discrimination, criminalization, funding cuts, and political backlash – despite their crucial role in ensuring health services reach those in need, including the most vulnerable populations.
All religions advise individuals to have high thoughts that nobody can avoid the impacts of suffering from diseases. Hence, communities of people living with, at risk of, or affected by HIV are at the forefront of progress in the HIV response. They provide and connect individuals with person-centred health services, build trust, drive innovation, monitor policy and service implementation, and hold providers accountable for human rights violations, according to the UNAIDS.
UNAIDS emphasizes that people worldwide should recognize its initiatives to mark Zero Discrimination Day, observed annually on 1 March. Discriminating against patients in society is not only unjust but also detrimental to their health. A truly prosperous society is one where all individuals, regardless of their health status, unite and support one another. In consequence, such collective efforts successfully contribute to the effective prevention and control of deadly disease outbreaks.
In line with the 2025 Zero Discrimination Day theme, “We Stand Together”, UNAIDS urges global communities to focus on sustaining the AIDS response now and in the future. This moment calls for reaffirming our commitment to community autonomy, justice, dignity, and health equity. Let us stand together with all patients, regardless of their condition, to build a healthier and more inclusive society. Such an act will be a good example for the next generations to initiate valuable activities for the patients.
