Addressing stigma in implementing HIV/AIDS workplace policy: the ACORD experience in Uganda

This Intrac Praxis Note describes the experience of ACORD Uganda in their efforts to implement an effective HIV and AIDS workplace policy. It focuses on the importance of addressing stigma within the organisation - both as an objective of the policy itself and as a prerequisite of its effective implementation. The paper sets out the reasons for developing the policy and examines the key challenges that arose during the process, as well as the strategies developed to address these challenges.

The note outlines a number of lessons learned from the experience. It highlights the importance of involving all staff in the policy process, which ensures that views are represented as well as creating a sense of policy ownership. It is also essential to gain management commitment and support for effective policy implementation. Other key lessons include that: promoting a stigma-free workplace environment should make up the main aims of the policy; tackling stigma involves both informal discussions and more formal awareness-raising and education sessions; cost and funding considerations are critical to policy implementation but should not be held up by budgetary constraints; and developing partnerships and co-operating with other actors, such as health service providers and counselling institutions is critical. [adapted from author]