Accelerating progress on HIV and AIDS and ending inequalities in the world of work

The Country Envelope Project, coordinated by UNAIDS, brings together a coalition of UN organizations operating within China, including the ILO, WHO, UNFPA, UNESCO, and UNPD. United by their shared vision, the joint program aims to dismantle the pervasive stigma and discrimination faced by people living with HIV (PLHIV) in China, which often impede their full integration into society.

At the heart of this endeavor, the ILO is dedicated to strengthening the implementation of the Convention on Employment and Occupation Discrimination (Convention No. 111), promoting equal employment opportunities for PLHIV, and guiding workplaces towards fostering diverse and inclusive environments where every individual feels valued and belongs. 

Recognizing the intersectional nature of HIV-related vulnerabilities, the project acknowledges the unique challenges faced by PLHIV who may be doubly or triply marginalized. The Country Envelope Program prioritizes the economic empowerment of these groups through targeted interventions that equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in today's job market.

Objectives

The project aims to reinforce Convention No. 111, foster inclusive employment for PLHIV, create diverse work environments, and empower those with multiple challenges economically.

Key Activities

• Enhance the employability and income-generating capacity of PLHIV in targeted provinces through tailored training and support programs.
• Conduct comprehensive research to assess the current landscape of HIV-related employment and identify institutional barriers that hinder equal employment opportunities for PLHIV. Leveraging China's successful experiences in eliminating workplace discrimination against Hepatitis B Virus carriers, we will explore innovative approaches to address HIV-related employment discrimination.
• Develop practical tools and guidelines to assist the private sector in implementing inclusive strategies that foster a diverse and welcoming workplace environment for all, including PLHIV.

Project partners

The Project will be executed in a collaborative effort with a diverse network of government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic institutions. Key partners include the MOHRSS, Women's Network Against AIDS China, and other leading Chinese academics etc.