Stop the Criminalization of HIV Non-Disclosure!

[Avnish Jolly]

Stop the Criminalization of HIV Non-Disclosure!
http://www.aidslaw.ca/EN/stopcriminalization/index.htm?1#Mailing

The Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network is extremely concerned about the escalation and severity of criminal charges involving HIV non- disclosure. Currently Canadian criminal law requires people living
with HIV to disclose their status before engaging in behaviour that involves a "significant risk" of transmitting the virus. More than 130 people living with HIV have been charged in less than 15 years — yet, this includes numerous cases, in which their activity posed no significant risk of HIV transmission. This is a miscarriage of justice. Such misuse of the law also contributes to a climate of
anxiety, fear, stigma and misinformation that undermines HIV counseling, education and prevention efforts — and puts all Canadians at greater risk.

People living with HIV are not criminals in cases where the threshold of significant risk is not met — including cases where condoms are used or an HIV-positive person is being successfully treated with
antiretroviral drugs. We envision a world where the law seeks to protect and uphold the human rights of all people, including those living with HIV, and is guided by the best available scientific evidence, not assumptions, prejudice or fear.

On February 8, 2012, the Supreme Court of Canada hears two landmark cases on this important issue in R v. Mabior and R v. DC. The Court’s decisions in these two appeal cases will have profound implications not only for people living with HIV, but also for Canadian public health, police practice and the criminal justice system. You can view the proceedings on February 8 via live webcast at the Supreme Court of Canada’s website. http://www.scc-csc.gc.ca/case-dossier/cms-sgd/webcasts-webdiffusion...

Please read our key documents for more information on the upcoming Supreme Court cases and the criminalization of HIV non-disclosure in Canada and abroad. You can also support the movement to end the injustice by attending an event or by staying informed.
http://www.aidslaw.ca/EN/stopcriminalization/index.htm?1#Mailing