What would the key elements of a good HIV/AIDS policy be?

HIV and AIDS policies should be clear, informative, state a non-discrimination principle, address key employment-related issues, and list internal and external references for advice and information.

The policy should be easily accessible to all employees, for example by being inserted into the staff handbook.

It is not essential to have a specific policy on HIV and AIDS. A policy can be inserted in an existing policy on disability, equal opportunities, or long-term medical conditions.

Policies should contain information on the following:

• A principle of non-discrimination, during both recruitment and employment, on grounds of actual or perceived HIV status, or association with an HIV-positive employee.
• Confidentiality and privacy.
• Management of an HIV-positive future or current employee(s).
• General prohibition of mandatory HIV-testing.
• How to get advice and information on HIV and AIDS.