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Abstract
Social, cultural and behavioral dimensions of MSM in Pakistan
W. Ali
Issues: Major issues faced by Pakistan are outbreak of HIV & AIDS, STIs TB and skin infections among MSM due to unsafe sexual activities. The ratio of HIV and AIDS spread is higher than other sex related group due to unsafe and hidden sexual practices in general society. Service delivery outlets are lesser than requirement. Fear of exposure, stigma and discrimination are issues also. They need a right base living also.
Description: There are many typologies of MSM in Pakistan e.g. MSWs and their clients, Hijras, Zananas, Giryas, Chawas, Malshias High Risk Youth (MARA & EVA) and others. They are also a part of bridging population too. HIV is spreading in families by them.
Lessons learned: Being a member of MSM community and being field administrator of MSM project, I have experiences that they don’t have negotiation skills due to fear of rejection by their clients, giryas or sexual partners. They agree to perform sex without condoms and lubricants usually but they provide faje data when someone ask for interview. Because, If they insist to use condom then there client, partner or girya will ditch them and opt some one who will agree without condom. There is strong need of unity between the network of MSM and Hijras.
Next steps: Need to start few training centers in big cities of Pakistan for MSM community. Primary health care, VCT, skill training and advocacy should be available there, One Halfway house in every big city for MSM and HIjras/Transgender is a least requirement. Halfway house will provide them temporary shelter, Primary health care if required, food and assistance he or she needed to settle down in city. All halfway house could be connected through a telephonic network. It should be funded initially and will changed into self-help system later.
AIDS 2008 - XVII International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
TUPE0616
Suggested Citation
" W. Ali
Social, cultural and behavioral dimensions of MSM in Pakistan.
:
AIDS 2008 - XVII International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
TUPE0616"
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