The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) hosted the second consultative session at the KPK, FC premises. The event, dedicated to formulating an engagement strategy to confront HIV stigma and discrimination within law enforcement agencies, brought together an assembly of approximately seventy officials.
Representatives from the National Highways & Motorway Police (NHMP), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), KP Police, Frontier Corps (FC), National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), along with esteemed individuals such as Dr. Yasir Hayat, Dr. Inam of UNICEF KP, Mohammed Shafiq of URDO, Safraz, Arzo Khan, Heer, and Zaheer Khattak, CEO of URDO were among the participants. The session was inaugurated by the Inspector General (IG) of KP, Mr. Akhtar Hayat. Mr. Hayat highlighted the critical need for effective guidelines to enhance law enforcement agencies’ sensitivity and responsiveness to HIV stigma.
He emphasized that the pillars of “awareness, effective communication, and inclusivity” are instrumental in countering stigma and creating a secure, supportive environment for individuals affected by HIV. Adding to this, law enforcement specialist Dr. Syed Kaleem Imam advocated for a thoughtful approach by law enforcement agencies towards victims of HIV.
He underscored the necessity of an innovative methodology that integrates a comprehensive curriculum, a cohesive national plan, and a uniform mechanism to alleviate the stigma and discrimination experienced by HIV patients.—NNI
