Seven takeaways from the UNAIDS:

1. Communities are central
Engage affected communities from the beginning in ALL response measures – to build trust, ensure suitability and effectiveness, and to avoid indirect or unintended harms and ensure the frequent sharing of information.

2. No stigma and discrimination
Combat all forms of stigma and discrimination, including those based on race, social contacts, profession (healthcare workers), and those directed towards marginalized groups that prevent them from accessing care.

3. Support the most vulnerable
Ensure access to free and affordable screening, testings and care fort he most vulnerable and hard to reach.

4. Remove barriers to action
Remove barriers to people protecting their own health and that of their communities: fear and unemployment, healthcare costs, presence of fake news/misinformation, lack of sanitation infrastructure and so forth.

5. No criminal sanctions
Restriction to protect public health must be limited duration, proportionate, necessary and evidence-based and reviewable by court. Put in place exceptions where necessary for vulnerable groups and to ameliorate the consequences of such restrictions. Blanket compulsory bans are rarely effective or necessary. Individuals should not be criminalized for breaching restrictions.

6. International Cooperation
Countries must work to support each other to ensure no country is left behind, sharing information, knowledge, resources and technical expertise.

7. Be kind
Support and protest health care workers. Be kind to each other. Join and support efforts that build trust and amplify solidarity, not sanctions.

 

Find the whole guidance document in english and arabic here.