As Fiji faces one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the world — with new infections also climbing across several Pacific Island countries — the Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network (PSGDN) is calling for urgent action to tackle both the spread of the virus and the deepening stigma fuelling the crisis.
PSGDN Interim CEO Loata Tucika says Fiji’s HIV situation has reached an alarming stage, but the biggest barrier to progress remains the stigma and discrimination that continue to push people away from testing, treatment, and care.
“At the forefront of these attacks are the most vulnerable — LGBTQI people and sex workers — who already face entrenched discrimination and barriers to healthcare,” she said.
Ahead of World AIDS Day tomorrow, Ms Tucika is urging Pacific communities to embrace the vuvale spirit — working together as one family — to dismantle myths and misconceptions surrounding HIV.
“World AIDS Day reminds our communities and governments that HIV has not gone away. We still need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice, and improve education,” she said.
She added that protecting human rights is fundamental to an effective HIV response across Fiji and the region — yet violations continue to undermine progress.
“Attacks on people’s human rights in many Pacific Island states are creating inequalities that perpetuate the AIDS pandemic,” Ms Tucika said. “We know that by improving respect for human rights, we can go a long way in curbing the spread and alleviating the impact of the epidemic.”
Empowering women, girls, LGBTQI people, and young people to make informed decisions about their sexuality — and ensuring equal access to information, treatment, and quality healthcare — is vital, she said.
“Discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and homophobia is fuelling the HIV epidemic among marginalised people, especially transgender women, gay and bisexual men, and sex workers. These barriers deprive people of their right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.”
Ms Tucika is calling on Pacific governments to urgently scale up evidence-based responses, including increased domestic funding and stronger engagement with partners such as the Global Fund.
“Our governments cannot afford to be complacent or divert all attention to COVID-19 and climate change,” she said.
She said ending AIDS requires a whole-of-society effort — from teachers and activists to politicians, faith leaders, and community groups — to confront stigma and taboos.
“As we mark World AIDS Day, we remember those we have lost, acknowledge the advances made, and recognise the setbacks we still face,” she said. “HIV is not just a health issue — it is a human rights issue. Only when everyone is treated with dignity and respect will we be able to end this epidemic.”
