"We are for a world where there is no discrimination against girls, where there is no early marriage, equal access to education is ensured, there is no violence, where people are not divided according to the principle of health and HIV status!" said the participants of the action dedicated to the International Day of Girls, held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

The event was organized by the Tajik Network of Women Living with HIV and the Peer-to-Peer Youth Network (Y-Peer) with the support of UNAIDS and the UN Structure for Gender Equality and the Promotion of the Role of Women (UN Women).

The program of the event included an exhibition of drawings on the theme "How I see the world without violence", awarding certificates to participants and awarding winners with commemorative prizes. Participants took part in a vector and interactive presentations on HIV, countering violence, and protecting the rights of girls. The girl leaders shared inspiring success stories. Mirsharif Mirkamolzoda, poet–activist of Y-Peer, read his poem for a more just and prosperous future in which there is no violence

On December 10, 2023, the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights will be celebrated. The Declaration was written and adopted by representatives of all regions of the world, its main postulate is that human rights are universal, indivisible and are the foundation of peace and development.

Asia Plus has prepared a series of articles dedicated to this significant date.

The first case of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was officially detected in Tajikistan 32 years ago.

What changes have occurred since then and how people with HIV infection live in Tajikistan, how to change the negative attitude of society towards them, says the head of the Network of Women Living with HIV in Tajikistan, Tahmina Khaidarova.

- Tahmina, tell us, what is the current situation with HIV infection in Tajikistan? What is the latest data?

- The situation with HIV infection in Tajikistan is still serious. According to the latest data, at the end of March 2023, 15333 HIV cases were registered - 9764 men and 5569 women. However, experts are confident that the real number of people living with HIV may be even higher, since not everyone is tested for HIV.

Hello, I am Khadija! I am 32 years old and I have two wonderful children. In 2016, a tragedy occurred - my husband, who had returned from work migration, suddenly passed away from an unknown illness. It was a shock for me and it seemed like the world lost its light and joy. But fate decided to test me even further. After his death, I was sent for testing at the HIV Center, and it turned out that my husband had died from HIV and had infected me as well. I felt like my life was falling apart and I had the desire to give up. However, I decided to fight. I started visiting the HIV Center and talking to peer counselors who helped me overcome pain and fear. There, I met other women who were also living with HIV. Their stories inspired me and gave me hope for a better future. I became actively involved in trainings and support groups at Non-Governmental Organizations. There, I gained not only valuable knowledge about HIV but also found support and understanding. These meetings became a source of strength and inspiration for me.

In 2018, I had the opportunity to learn the profession of a tailor through a project. I eagerly embarked on the journey of learning about the world of fashion and garment creation. My perseverance and talent were noticed, and I started working as a tailor. With each passing day, I became better and better at my craft. My work was in demand, and I was able to provide a decent future for my family. I became confident and independent.

But most importantly, I did not forget to share my experience and inspiration with other women living with HIV. I tell them, "Life with HIV is possible! We are no different from other women. We have the strength and potential to be full-fledged members of society. Don't give up, fight, and strive for a happy and fulfilling life!"

Today, with a sincere smile on my face, I continue to share my story and pursue my successful tailoring business. My success story proves that life with HIV can be full of joy and opportunities.