A research report on the key concerns of the sex worker community in Fiji was launched in Suva.
The document called, Integrated Behavioural and Biological Survey and Size Estimation of Sex Workers in Fiji: HIV Prevention Report –was launched ahead of the International Aid Conference in Melbourne, Australia next week.
President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau said he believes tackling barriers and an all inclusive approach to HIV will end AIDS in Fiji.
“Ladies and gentlemen – friends, it is crucial for us to work together and to continue working together. President Obama once said, quote ‘but if we work together; if we summon what is best in us, with our feet planted firmly in today but our eyes cast towards tomorrow – I know it’s within our reach,’ unquote. I do believe that if we continue working together involving key populations such as sex workers, MSM, trans genders and people living with HIV Fiji will end AIDS by 2030."
Some critical recommendations emanating from the research findings include effective and efficient community engagement in HIV programmes, accessibility and friendly HIV care and treatment.
Other recommendations include access to legal literacy and legal aid services for sex workers and transgender people, police and sex worker cooperation and reconciling the HIV/AIDS decree with other laws to enable Fijians to realize their roles in this cause.
