Papua New Guinea: Bill to Make HIV testing compulsory

19 February 2008

The United Nations System in Papua New Guinea commends on-going efforts by the Government to scale up HIV testing and counseling in the country. The role of voluntary counseling and testing is important as it increases access to HIV prevention, care and support services.

We wish to state, however, that compulsory testing is contrary to the UN position on HIV testing and counseling as it is a violation of the right to privacy and confidentiality. This is in reference to recent newspaper articles on making HIV testing compulsory in Bougainville; an outcome attributed to UN supported HIV workshops targeting different cadres of leadership in Bougainville.

HIV testing and counseling, is part of the broad prevention, treatment and care strategies. It should be carried out in a manner that does not fuel stigma and discrimination, and implemented in an environment where human rights are respected, protected and fulfilled.