Language matters
At the IAS, we actively use language that puts people first. This is because words have power: they bestow or remove dignity, build or break stigma, and divide or unite the HIV response. Through the words we choose to use at the IAS, we acknowledge that a person is so much more than a condition; we promote inclusivity, dialogue and equality. Join us!
The words we use matter in the response to HIV
We stress the importance of never labelling people as "infected", of using "people-first" language.
"People-first" language puts the person before their condition: an infant exposed to HIV, for example, rather than an HIV-exposed infant.
Please consult the UNAIDS Terminology Guidelines and People First Charter.
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use: people or person living with HIV; person or people with TB; person or people living with HIV and TB; healthcare seekers or clients. |
label people as: HIV-infected; infected; co-infected; cases; carriers; victims; patients; sufferers. |
spell out the names of key populations:
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use acronyms for key and vulnerable populations. |
talk of the response to HIV and ending the HIV pandemic as a public health threat. |
use war talk for HIV (the war on HIV; the fight against HIV). |
Do…
Don't...