Review of country progress in addressing legal and policy barriers to universal access to HIV services in Asia and the Pacific
Countries in Asia and the Pacific have made significant progress in removing legal and policy barriers to universal access to HIV services since 2012. However, much work remains to be done. Progress has been slow and inconsistent in the reform of criminal laws that deter key populations from accessing services (i.e. removal of penal code provisions relating to sex work, drug use, and same-sex sexual conduct). Significant work has occurred in raising awareness of the importance of expanding access to justice, however the vast majority of people living with HIV and key populations are still unable to access legal aid services. Key populations and women affected by HIV remain highly stigmatized, continue to face discrimination and high levels of violence that often goes unreported, and have limited access to justice.
