Situación de los derechos humanos de personas con VIH y las poblaciones en más alto riesgo en Panamá

This includes monitoring the actions of public servants and those who provide public services to ensure respect for human rights. The organization's efforts focus on addressing the historical discrimination and human rights violations faced by individuals with HIV. The stigma and discrimination faced by individuals with HIV and populations at higher risk are significant barriers to the full enjoyment of human rights. In 2022, the Defensoría del Pueblo sensitized 23,258 students to the issue of HIV and human rights through educational programs. By the first quarter of 2023, an additional 14,844 students had been sensitized, bringing the total number of students educated to 38,102. The Defensoría del Pueblo also works with the Policía Nacional to address the issue of HIV. Between 2020 and 2023, the police force applied 1,015 HIV tests, attended to 54 individuals with HIV, and provided training to 400 individuals. The Ministry of Labor and Development (MITRADEL) also conducted sensitization talks and HIV testing for 296 public servants between 2020 and 2023. Eight organizations working on HIV, AIDS, stigma, and discrimination issues for at-risk populations have implemented protocols for attending to individuals with HIV or at higher risk. These organizations provide training on HIV and stigma, report cases of discrimination, and maintain records of personnel with HIV or at higher risk. They also conduct HIV testing and provide ongoing training and support. The Defensoría del Pueblo receives funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for its work on HIV and human rights. The organization's efforts aim to address the stigma and discrimination faced by individuals with HIV and populations at higher risk, and to promote the full enjoyment of human rights for these individuals.