Humanising the law: harnessing science and community voices to end HIV criminalisation
This paper traces the evolution of community-led responses to HIV criminalisation over nearly two decades, demonstrating how science, advocacy, and storytelling have collectively reshaped legal and policy frameworks.It describes the formation and strategic interventions of the HIV Justice Network and, later, the HIV JUSTICE WORLDWIDE coalition; highlights methodological innovations such as legal monitoring and community-based documentation; and emphasises the centrality of human rights principles. Case examples - including the legacy of Ugandan nurse Rosemary Namubiru - illustrate the impact of HIV criminalisation and the power of resilience. While challenges persist amidst growing authoritarianism and disinformation, coordinated global efforts continue to advance evidence-informed, rights-based alternatives. This paper calls for a humanisation of the law that centres lived experiences, elevates scientific understanding, and fosters justice for people living with HIV. Ultimately, this paper argues for a paradigm shift from punitive legal responses to approaches rooted in care, dignity, and justice.
Consensus Statement on HIV “Treatment as Prevention” in Criminal Law Reform
The Consensus Statement is a collaborative document that grew out of the recognition of a need for guidance on how the science of HIV treatment and prevention tools relates to the reform of HIV criminal laws.
Policy Position Statement on HIV Criminalization
Opposes laws that distinguish HIV from other comparable diseases or that create disproportionate penalties for disclosure, exposure or transmission of HIV disease beyond normal public health ordinances. Supports non-punitive prevention approaches to HIV centred on current scientific understanding and evidence based research.
Controlling Sex in the Name of “Public Health”: Social Control and Michigan HIV Law
Found that local health officials’ interpretation of ‘health threat’ and understanding of the law varied. Indicates how public health institutions themselves may contribute to and facilitate enforcement of Michigan’s problematic HIV disclosure law. Shows that stigma and fear often drive community members to police HIV-positive neighbours’ disclosure practices.
Criminal Law, Public Health and HIV Transmission: A Policy Options Paper
Proposes principles to guide thinking about law and policy on criminal law and HIV, considers alternative to criminalization, and makes recommendations about appropriate use of criminal sanctions and coercive public health measures.