This code is aimed at preventing the spread and mitigating the impact of HIV/AIDS in the world of work. It is built on and around two pillars, the first - which is at the heart of all the ILO’s work – is the protection of workers against discrimination, and the second is prevention: the workplace is not only an appropriate but an essential place for HIV/AIDS information, education and behavior change. The code provides invaluable guidance to policy-makers, organizations and the social partners for forming effective and appropriate workplace and national policy that respects the dignity of all workers.

HIV/AIDS in the workplace is a complex issue, and this code covers the key principles surrounding it such as recognition of HIV/AIDS as a workplace issue, the role of social dialogue, the gender dimension, confidentiality, screening and testing, adapting jobs and workplaces to the capacities of workers with HIV-related sickness. It looks at the specific responsibilities of governments, workers’ and employers’ organizations and includes measures for education, care and support, and training for all with workplace responsibilities.

Aiming to promote decent work in the face of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, this code applies to all working men and women and to all types of work, paid or unpaid, in the formal and informal sectors.