HIV/AIDS and the world of work

Promoting the health and safety of workers has been part of the ILO’s mandate since its foundation in 1919.

This mandate includes helping workplaces respond to HIV (the Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, caused by HIV).

While most countries in Asia have low HIV prevalence, full engagement of the workplace now can help prevent higher HIV prevalence later. It can also provide much-needed care and support to HIV-infected and affected workers and their families.

Through its Programme on HIV/AIDS and the World of Work (ILO/AIDS), the ILO:

• Raises awareness of the economic and social impact of AIDS in the world of work;
• Helps governments, employers and workers support national efforts to prevent the spread and reduce the impact of HIV/AIDS; and
• Fights discrimination and stigma related to HIV/AIDS.

Key documents

• The ILO Code of Practice on HIV/AIDS and the world of work
• The ILO Code of Practice on HIV/AIDS and the world of work: The 10 Key principles
• Recommendation Concerning HIV and AIDS and the World of Work, 2010 (No. 200)

Key resources

HIV/AIDS standards at the country level developed in cooperation with the ILO:

Cambodia

• Cambodia: Addressing HIV vulnerabilities of indirect sex workers during the financial crisis: Situation analysis, strategies and entry points for HIV/AIDS workplace education
• Prakas 086: The creation of the HIV/AIDS committee in enterprises and establishments and the prevention of HIV/AIDS in the workplace

China

• HIV and AIDS related employment discrimination in China

Philippines

• Managing HIV/AIDS in the workplace: Employers’ handbook for action

Toolkits

• HIV/AIDS behaviour change communication: A toolkit for the workplace
• Mise en oeuvre des directives pratiques du BIT sur le VIH/SIDA et le monde du travail: Manuel de formation
• Know more about HIV/AIDS: A toolkit for workers in the informal economy
• Driving for change: A training toolkit on HIV/AIDS for the road transport sector