Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2007. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Mail & Guardian Online - August 22, 2007
Laying down the law:The HIV-prevalence rate in Madagascar may be lower than that in Southern Africa countries, but the levels of stigma and discrimination are just as high. Activists and government officials are hoping that a recently introduced law will alleviate the problem.
"Finally, we will be able to generalise and apply the law," said Fenosoa Ratsimanetrimanana, executive secretary of the National Aids Committee (CNLS). The legislation stipulates fines for acts of discrimination of up to $200, and up to $500 for disclosing the status of a patient.
"The spirit of this law is non-discrimination, easing the fight against HIV via prevention and information," said Minister of Health Robinson Jean Louis.
Yves Bourny, a UNAids official, welcomed the move, describing it as a "strong message sent by the Malagasy government, which clearly support and recognise people living with HIV/Aids".
Madagascar is still relatively unaffected by the virus: the CNLS estimates the national infection rate at 0,95%. But, the 4% prevalence rate for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is much higher and, in the eyes of the health minister, represents a possible "entry way for the HI virus".
No prominent Malagasy figure has publicly acknowledged being HIV-positive, but Madagascar's President Marc Ravalomanana was tested in February last year.
UNAids estimates there are about 39 000 HIV-positive people in Madagascar, but only 89 receive antiretroviral treatment. The government hopes the legislation will encourage HIV-positive people to come forward and make use of HIV services, and that more people will be tested.
Not everyone is convinced, particularly about a clause that allows for up to two years in jail for transmitting HIV through "clumsiness, imprudence, carelessness, negligence, or failure to observe the rules".
"A law was necessary, but it is too unclear and not strong enough. In any case, it will not encourage me to publicly disclose my status," said an infected Malagasy who wished to remain anonymous.
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