In a relatively short period, the pandemic of HIV/AIDS has become one the most critical workplace issues in our time. In addition to the epidemic’s devastating impact on these women and men and their families, it affects the world of work in many ways. For example, discrimination against people with HIV/AIDS threatens fundamental rights at work, undermining opportunities for people to obtain decent employment. Following consultations among governments, employers and workers, the ILO in 2001 adopted a Code of Practice on HIV/AIDS and the World of Work. The pioneering Code is designed to help prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS while managing and mitigating its workplace impact. Among the Code’s key principles are non-discrimination, gender equality, a healthy working environment, no HIV testing for purposes of employment, confidentiality and the continuation of the employment relationship. Increasingly, the code is serving as a reference point for employers and trade unions negotiating agreements on handling HIV/AIDS in the world of work.
