Abstract
The
HIV epidemic continues to grow in Tajikistan, especially among people
who inject drugs, sex workers, men who have sex with men and
incarcerated populations. Despite their susceptibility to HIV, members
of these groups do not always have access to HIV prevention, testing and
treatment. The purpose of this study was to identify and understand the
gender constraints in accessing HIV services for key populations in
Tajikistan. Using focus-group discussions and key-informant interviews
the assessment team collected information from members of key
populations and those who work with them. Several themes emerged from
the data, including: low levels of HIV knowledge, gender constraints to
condom use and safer drug use, gender constraints limit HIV testing
opportunities, gender-based violence, stigma and discrimination, and the
lack of female spaces in the HIV response. The results of this study
show that there are well-defined gender norms in Tajikistan, and these
gender norms influence key populations' access to HIV services.
Addressing these gender constraints may offer opportunities for more
equitable access to HIV services in Tajikistan.
KEYWORDS:
HIV; Tajikistan; gender; key populations
