Jude Thaddeus Njikem

The session focused on the harmful impact of criminalisation for communities and how criminalised communities can organise to influence policy, lead legal change and claim their rights. It also discusses how communities can work together to pushback, mobilise resources and mobilise political support against criminalisation and anti-right agendas.

The session was moderated by Oanh Khuat (Center for Supporting Community Development Initiatives, Viet Nam) and focused on experiences of of communities in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Asia, and Africa in responding to the criminalization of key populations. Gennady Roshchupkin (Eurasian Coalition for Health, Rights, Gender and Sexual Diversity, Ukraine) discussed the criminalization of HIV in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Roshchupkin highlighted the Swiss Statement and the U=U principles, which underline that effective treatment reduces HIV transmission risk. Despite these advances, many countries in the region still criminalize HIV transmission, reflecting deep-rooted societal stigma. Ashwin Thind (PENGASIH, Malaysia) discussed recent development in Malaysian drug laws. Ashwin alluded to progress that has been made in recognising addiction as a disease but express concerns over punitive laws which could lead to imprisonment for persons using drugs and undermine efforts to promote health-seeking behaviour. Aswhin reiterated that community-based treatment works and that there is need for a balanced approach that incorporates medical, psychological and social factors in addressing substance use disorders. Macklean Kyomya (Alliance of Women 2 Advocate 4 Change, Uganda) was unavoidably absent.

The discussions highlighted the complex challenges faced by communities in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Asia, and Africa in responding to the criminalization of key populations. Discussions emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach that integrates medical care, psychosocial interventions, and community-based treatment, rather than relying solely on punitive measures. The discussions also revealed the significant barriers to implementing such an approach, including entrenched social attitudes, political resistance, and the lack of meaningful community engagement in the policymaking process. Discussants underscored the importance of sustained advocacy, evidence-based solutions, and a commitment to human rights and dignity in addressing these critical issues.