Controlling Sex in the Name of “Public Health”: Social Control and Michigan HIV Law
Found that local health officials’ interpretation of ‘health threat’ and understanding of the law varied. Indicates how public health institutions themselves may contribute to and facilitate enforcement of Michigan’s problematic HIV disclosure law. Shows that stigma and fear often drive community members to police HIV-positive neighbours’ disclosure practices.
HIV criminal prosecutions and public health: an examination of the empirical research
Concludes that HIV-related criminal laws either fail to influence or increase STI testing avoidance, unprotected anonymous sexual contacts, and avoidance of health care because respondents do not feel safe speaking with health professionals. Suggests HIV-related criminal laws compromise public health and clinicians’ abilities to establish therapeutic relationships and to undertake HIV prevention and treatment work.
HIV and the Law: Risks, Rights and Health
Presents coherent and compelling evidence base on human rights and legal issues relating to HIV, including commentary and recommendations. Chapter 2 (pages 21-25) covers HIV criminalisation.
HIV disclosure as practice and public policy
Found that the increasing criminalization of HIV non-disclosure does not address the complexity of HIV transmission, making it unlikely to reduce HIV transmission.
Ending overly broad criminalisation of HIV non-disclosure, exposure and transmission: Critical scientific, medical and legal considerations
Restates UNAIDS’ position on criminalisation and makes specific recommendations to help governments, policy-makers, law enforcement officials, and civil society limit the overly broad application of criminal law to HIV.
- Alternative links
- Spanish / Español