Abstract

Problems of HIV prevention among homosexuals

Background: The main hypothesis is community of gays, bisexuals and transsexuals of Russia is “closed” for HIV prevention programmes. The abstract expounds analysis of prevention campaign on “A Day of Victims´ Memory of Repression for Homosexuality”. Its purpose is prevention HIV among MSM.
Methods: Association of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transsexuals (LGBT) of RF noted the sad event (75 years of law about criminal punishment for homosexuality) on 17th of December in 2008. The campaign was held by members of “The homosexuals' club”. The Club works in the Republic Fight and Prevention Center against AIDS and Infectious Diseases, MH of RT. Its aim is prevention HIV among MSM. The members of the homosexuals' club in Kazan set fire to 75 candles at the memorial to victims of repression.
Results: The peculiarity of this campaign is that 70 % of the members didn't come there because of discrimination and homophobia. The law against homosexuals was recalled 16 years ago, but homosexuals conceal their non-tradition orientation. The attitude of population towards homosexuals is important for the members of “The Club”. Some MSM are afraid of camera because of misconceptions among general population. Association of LGBT is “closed” for population. HIV prevention programmes for MSM are complicated and demand peculiar way of their leading.
Conclusions: Providing HIV prevention, professionals should take into consideration that MSM is “closed” group in Russia. It's necessary to organize and support HIV prevention groups to give MSM the feeling of protection. New campaigns should be created to make tolerant attitude towards MSM.


[“A Day of Victims' Memory of Repression for MSM'']