UN Women reviles study result on Gender Based Violence (GBV) and HIV/AIDS in Georgia

Georgia, Tbilisi – November 30, 2012; 11:00 a.m, Hotel Betsy’s - there will be presented the findings of a study on “Gender Based Violence (GBV) and HIV/AIDS in Georgia: Links, Opportunities and Potential Responses” conducted by “ACT Research”. The study has been commissioned by UN Women and UNAIDS jointly.

The study uncovers the links between gender based violence and HIV/AIDS in Georgia. Already existing studies from different parts of the world show increasing links between violence against women and HIV and demonstrate that HIV-infected women are more likely to have experienced violence. Studies also show that Women who have experienced violence are at a higher risk for HIV/AIDS. It is also worth noting, that despite the fact that the spread of HIV/AIDS is quite small scale in Georgia, the country is one of seven countries in the world where HIV incidence has increased by more than 25% over the past decade.

“This study and its findings are very important to start challenging the stigma and discrimination associated with both HIV/AIDS and violence and that also reinforces them, especially when it concerns women,” states Ms. Tamar sabedashvili, UN Women Gender Adviser for Georgia.

The event will be attended by the representatives of governmental and international organizations, as well as local women’s non-governmental organizations and media.