By ENNIO KUBLE
Compulsory testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that leads to acquired immuno deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is in violation of basic universal human rights.
A united call was issued by United Nations bodies, Health Department and the National AIDS Council (NAC)that such an initiative to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country was in breach of laws governing human rights.
The collective stand against compulsory testing was made after community leaders in Bougainville petitioned the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) last week to make HIV testing compulsory.
Health secretary Dr Clement Malau in a press conference teamed with UN representatives said the issue of HIV/AIDS had many challenges that experts are grappling with it.
One of which Dr Malau said was on testing and counselling, where individuals through proper counselling have to make their choice on clear conscience to undergo a test.
Dr Malau said the NAC’s standard protocol on voluntary testing and counselling (VTC) emphasise on testing to be done on free will.
He said people are not to be pressured or coerced into undergoing a test that is against basic human rights.
The UN Population Fund country director, Duah Owusu Sarfo said UNPFA and UNAIDS, conducted an awareness programme in Bougainville last week upon request from the AGB.
“We did not subscribe to compulsory testing. Compulsory testing is ethically wrong. It is against rights and we categorically condone it,” Mr Sarfo said.
He said the UN with the National Government condone the intention of community leaders in Bougainville.
He said dialogue had been established with AGB and that a workshop would be held for parliamentarians and extended down to community leaders to clarify the issue on compulsory testing.
WHO country representative Dr Eigil Sorensen said counselling, consent and confidentiality are factors that make people come forward for a test.
Dr Sorensen said people cannot be forced by way of legislation to have their rights forfeited.
The UNAIDS country coordinator Tim Rwabuhemba said more is needed to sensitise the communities with their leaders on the HIV issue on the laws relating to rights.
Mr Rwabuhemba said the HIV/ AIDS Management and Prevention Act clearly outline the rights of persons to coerced testing.