By Fabiana Mcklmon
The Guyana Marriott in Kingston, Georgetown, hosted the National Judges’ Forum on HIV, Human Rights, and the Law today.
The seminar aimed to address critical issues surrounding the rights of individuals living with HIV and to reduce discrimination within the judicial system.
The forum focused on equipping judges with a deeper understanding of the stigma associated with HIV and its impact on human rights.
The Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Gerardo Noto, emphasized the importance of judicial awareness in shaping legal protections for vulnerable populations.
He highlighted that judicial decisions play a significant role in challenging discrimination and ensuring equitable treatment for all.
Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony supported the initiative, acknowledging the ongoing challenge of HIV-related stigma.
He stressed the necessity for judicial officers to comprehend the nuances of discrimination and to collaborate with public programs to improve conditions for those affected by HIV.
This event was organized in partnership with the UNDP and the Judicial Education Institutions of Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.
It aimed to foster a more informed and empathetic approach within the judicial system, thereby advancing the protection of human rights for people living with HIV.