Message from UNAIDS Executive Director Mr. Michel Sidibé

GENEVA, 17 May 2011—The world is faced with stigma and discrimination that can lead to violence and block the AIDS response. This impacts the lives of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people.

The AIDS response has shown that when people are stigmatized because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, they are less likely to access the HIV services they need. This leads to new HIV infections and AIDS deaths.

We must replace violence and discrimination with acceptance and tolerance.

I call on governments to create social and legal environments that ensure respect for human rights and universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support.

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