The ILO Code of Practice on HIV/AIDS and the world of work

The Code of Practice is the framework for action related to the workplace. It contains key principles for policy development and practical guidelines for programmes at enterprise, community and national levels. It covers in the following main areas:

  • prevention of HIV
  • management and mitigation of the impact of AIDS on the world of work
  • care and support of workers infected and affected by HIV/AIDS
  • elimination of stigma and discrimination on the basis of real or perceived HIV status.

The ILO developed the Code in response to many requests for guidance, on the basis of a widespread consultation with its constituents in all regions, and a range of other stakeholders.

Download the Code of Practice in your language

Key principles of the Code of Practice

We reproduce below a short version of section 4 of the Code. Feel free to use this version for distribution: English, PDF 104K

  • 4.1 Recognition of HIV/AIDS as a workplace issue
    HIV/AIDS is a workplace issue, not only because it affects the workforce, but also because the workplace can play a vital role in limiting the spread and effects of the epidemic.
  • 4.2 Non-discrimination
    There should be no discrimination or stigmatization of workers on the basis of real or perceived HIV status.
  • 4.3 Gender equality
    More equal gender relations and the empowerment of women are vital to successfully preventing the spread of HIV infection and enabling women to cope with HIV/AIDS.
  • 4.4 Healthy work environment
    The work environment should be healthy and safe, and adapted to the state of health and capabilities of workers.
  • 4.5 Social dialogue
    A successful HIV/AIDS policy and programme requires cooperation and trust between employers, workers, and governments.
  • 4.6 Screening for purposes of employment
    HIV/AIDS screening should not be required of job applicants or persons in employment and testing for HIV should not be carried out at the workplace except as specified in this code.
  • 4.7 Confidentiality
    Access to personal data relating to a worker's HIV status should be bound by the rules of confidentiality consistent with existing ILO codes of practice.
  • 4.8 Continuing the employment relationship
    HIV infection is not a cause for termination of employment. Persons with HIV-related illnesses should be able to work for as long as medically fit in appropriate conditions.
  • 4.9 Prevention
    The social partners are in a unique position to promote prevention efforts through information and education, and support changes in attitudes and behaviour.
  • 4.10 Care and support
    Solidarity, care and support should guide the response to AIDS at the workplace. All workers are entitled to affordable health services and to benefits from statutory and occupational schemes.

Application of the the Code of Practice

The Code of Practice is being applied in the following countries: Argentina, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Benin, Botswana, Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, China, East Timor, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Ivory Coast, Japan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Mozambique, Namibia, the Philippines, Russian Federation, Senegal, Seychelles, St. Lucia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Swaziland, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Trinidad & Tobago, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Zambia, Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), Foreign service of the Netherlands, Foreign service of the United Kingdom

How the Code was developed

A Resolution on HIV/AIDS and the World of Work, adopted at the International Labour Conference in June 2000, resulted in the creation of a programme on HIV/AIDS within the International Labour Office. The Conference Resolution also requested that international guidelines be developed to tackle HIV/AIDS in the workplace. At the same time, many requests were received from constituents to help them establish their rights and responsibilities.

The Code is the product of an intensive process of consultation between the ILO and its tripartite constituents. It was reviewed and revised by a tripartite group of experts from all regions and subsequently adopted by the ILO Governing Body in June 2001. Formally launched at the United Nations General Assembly Special Session on HIV/AIDS (New York, 25-27 June), it received the support of the UN Secretary General and UN system, as well as of national leaders, corporations, labour organizations, and NGOs. The Declaration of Commitment approved at the Special Session makes reference to the need for national laws and policies to take account "of established international guidelines on HIV/AIDS in the workplace.

How to use the Code

A comprehensive, modular training manual has been prepared to guide the use of the Code by ILO's constituents and other stakeholders.

It is an education and reference document as well as a tool for training, a framework for social dialogue and a guide for action. Each module is designed to involve people in active learning through the presentation of key issues, case studies, diverse learning activities, and samples of legislation, policies and collective agreements.