27 August 2008
In a strict Muslim country such as Yemen, AIDS is a controversial subject. Although it is not ravaged by HIV/AIDS like Sub-Saharan Africa, a lack of awareness and education makes it a high risk place for infection, and the number of people infected has been growing.
The situation isn't helped by the discrimination that exists towards people living with the disease. According to the World Health Organisation, the number of HIV-positive Yemenis may be higher than records show, as many people will hide the condition for fear of the social consequences.
Progressio, a UK charity sponsored by DFID, is working in Yemen to combat the fear and ignorance that surround HIV/AIDS. Recognising that the support of religious leaders is crucial to achieving this, one recent Progressio project has provided focused training to Imams and Khutabas.
Communities take notice
In November 2007, a two-day workshop was convened by the project in the Yemeni capital Sana'a. It invited preachers to look closely at religious attitudes to HIV/AIDS and consider their roles in reducing stigma and discrimination.
In countries like Yemen, where faith informs most aspects of daily life, the views of religious leaders on HIV/AIDS can be especially powerful. As one participant in the workshops said: "Norms and values are institutionally established in the community through religious leaders." Encouraging tolerant attitudes, therefore, is hugely important.
Giving care and support
Initially, when asked whether HIV/AIDS was a punishment from God, some participants agreed, saying the disease was a result of failing to follow God's teachings. However, as the workshop progressed and the issue was discussed more thoroughly, a different view emerged.
By the end of the debate, most of those taking part had agreed that AIDS is a disease like any other and that it shouldn't be viewed as a punishment. Afterwards, the group discussed what Islamic teachings would say about the stigma around HIV/AIDS, agreeing that healthy and sick people should not be treated differently. The dignity and humanity of HIV/AIDS sufferers should be respected, they decided, and they should be given care and support in line with the Islamic message of love and peace.
Imama Sheikh Abdul-Wali al-Qadasi was one of those who took part in the workshop. He believes it is his "religious duty" to prevent HIV/AIDS from spreading and to ensure that people living with the disease do not suffer discrimination. "We should encourage people to treat such patients kindly and respect them according to Islamic teaching," he says. "Islam teaches us to respect other people’s rights - including those people infected with HIV/AIDS."
Facts and stats
- Progressio has been working in AIDS prevention in Yemen since the mid 1990s. It organises regular educational events in four key cities.
- DFID provides 64% of Progressio’s income through a five-year Partnership Programme Agreement (PPA) (2005-2011).
- The PPA provides Progressio with funding of £2.8 million per year for the first three years. Funding for the last three years will be agreed in due course.