[25/01/07 14:00] In an address to the Council of Europe's Parliamentary Assembly, Commissioner Hammarberg spoke about the human rights dimension of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
"A large section of the infected population does not receive the necessary anti-retroviral treatment or psychological support. HIV carriers often become victims of discrimination in the areas of medical assistance, education, as well as labour market opportunities."
The Commissioner also said that only comprehensive strategies can stop the disease from spreading, and spoke strongly in favour of PACE Resolution 1536 on HIV/AIDS in Europe, which recommends for governments to establish national action plans.
"I would like to urge the Parliamentary Assembly to rigorously follow up on these recommendations, and secure that governments design action plans which are rights-based, and which integrate special provisions for the most vulnerable groups, including women and children."
See also
Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly Resolution 1536 (2007) on HIV/AIDS in Europe