A global assessment of the role of law in the HIV/AIDS pandemic

This article examines the dynamic role of law as a tool, and potential barrier, to public health interventions designed to ameliorate the negative impacts of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) globally. Law impacts the lives of persons living with (and at risk on HIV/AIDS in many ways. Laws may: (1) help to ensure that public health authorities are empowered to provide effective prevention and treatment programmes: (2) effectuate the human rights to life, health, work, education and property Ownership Of persons living with, or at risk of, HIV/AIDS: and (3) protect persons living with HIV/AIDS from social risks, stigma and other harms by respecting privacy and prohibiting unwarranted discrimination. However, laws can also create legal barriers in many countries that impede effective HIV/AIDS interventions by penalizing those with HIV/AlDS through criminal sanctions or other policies. As a result, it is recommended globally that laws should facilitate tire prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS consistent with scientific and Public health practices and with a human rights framework. Effective Use of existing laws that promote the Public's health, and reforms of laws which impede it, contribute to improved individual and communal health outcomes concerning HIV/AIDS. (c) 2009 The Royal Society for Public Health. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.