It is said that there are about 39.5 million people living with HIV in the world today. In Asian countries, the number of people living with HIV is estimated at about 8 million. In 2006 only, 900 Japanese were newly infected with HIV. As the spread of infection widens, there arises the major problem of discrimination and stigma toward people living with HIV.

To cope with this trend, the Japanese Red Cross Society held a symposium in Tokyo on February 3rd, inviting 3 speakers from abroad. The title was 'The Discrimination and Stigma toward People Living with HIV in Asian Countries'.

Ms. Grace Lo, who belongs to the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, introduced the concrete guideline that people living with HIV can work freely and should not be discriminated against by anyone in his/her workplace. "People living with HIV should not be compelled to announce the fact that he/she is infected with HIV. However, in cases where he/she wishes to disclose this fact, we have to provide him/her with maximum support."

Ms. Somsri Tantipaibulvut, who belongs to the Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, reported that the Thai Red Cross Society has been playing a progressive role in fighting against HIV/AIDS, such as introducing Voluntary Counseling and Testing for the first time in Thailand. On the other hand, she pointed out that there still remains strong discrimination and stigma. "In Thailand, there is a feeling of confidence in the Royal family and the effect of seeing the princess carry children infected with HIV in her arms greatly influences public opinion. The Royal family is cooperative toward HIV measures, so we want to reduce discrimination and stigma through these opportunities and continue to make steady efforts."

In addition, Ms. Tamaki Hatano, who is in charge of the HIV/AIDS Program in Indonesia funded by the Japanese Red Cross Society, participated in this conference. She introduced the example of a group of homosexual people living with HIV. They try to join the social network through the management of a beauty salon with assistance from Red Cross. She concluded by saying that "people living with HIV do not desire special treatment, they only desire an environment free of discrimination and stigma."

What is needed in dealing with HIV is not only treatments or cures in medical facilities. The Japanese Red Cross Society is making progressive efforts to reduce the HIV discrimination and stigma and spread correct knowledge and prevention all over the world as a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, together with Sister National Societies.