HIV/AIDS is a crisis for the world and for Viet Nam. Here in Viet Nam, HIV/AIDS is a crisis on many levels and is affecting the entire nation and its prospects for continued sustainable economic growth. Approximately 1 out of every 75 households already has a family member living with HIV/AIDS.

This new study presented by the United Nations Country Team focuses on the issue of stigma and discrimination in the work place. It documents that stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) is widespread in Viet Nam. The Constitution of Viet Nam recognizes the right to work for everyone. However, stigma and discrimination are now denying this fundamental right for far too many PLWHA.

The new Viet Nam National Strategy on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control until 2010 with a Vision to 2020 recently approved by the Prime Minister is an important step forward to ensure that stigma and discrimination is prevented here in Viet Nam. The strategy calls for everyone to stand together in solidarity against stigma and discrimination. An important first step is to ensure the right to work for those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS.

In bringing much needed attention to this important issue, the United Nations Country Team in Viet Nam hopes to generate a wider public and policy dialogue on how to overcome discrimination and stigmatization of PLWHA. Such a dialogue will need to confront important issues of rights as well as to encourage fundamental social values of tolerance and solidarity.