WHO commends China on lifting entry restrictions for HIV-positive people

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday commended the Chinese government on its decision to remove entry and travel restrictions for people living with HIV.

"China's decision to categorically remove HIV/AIDS from the list of conditions subject to entry restrictions is a significant step in the right direction," WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said in a statement.

"This decision should inspire other nations to change laws and policies that continue to discriminate against people living with HIV," she said.

More than 50 countries still have laws and restrictions that exacerbate the marginalization of people living with HIV, particularly vulnerable populations such as sex workers, young people, and men who have sex with men, limiting their opportunities to access HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, care and support services, according to the UN agency.

"Many policies that discriminate against people living with HIV were enacted at a time when AIDS was surrounded by widespread fear and hopelessness. With HIV prevention and treatment now saving millions of lives, this is no longer the case. Policies that help curb discrimination can help prevent further transmission," Chan said.

China's announcement was made in the lead-up to the opening of the Shanghai World Expo on May 1.

Source: Xinhua