Egypt

Egypt is part of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, one of only two regions which struggles to reduce AIDS-related deaths year on year.

A lack of data means that the way the epidemic affects different marginalised groups of people is unknown. This means that effective HIV programming in the country needs to begin with gathering data.

In 2017, the waving of rainbow flags at a concert sparked a huge increase in violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) in Egypt. The ensuing arrests of LGBT people hampered any progress made in protecting the human rights of this marginalised group, and subsequently their ability to access HIV services.

Together with Frontline AIDS partners, we implement one programme in Egypt. Sustainability of Services for key populations in MENA Region, supported by the Global Fund seeks to improve access to HIV testing, treatment and care services for marginalised populations.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Despite no penalty for same-sex sexual conduct, LGBT people continue to be sent to prison.
• Adolescents under 18 years old must get parental consent before they can access sexual and reproductive health and rights services.
• There has been a 421% increase in new HIV infections since 2010.
• Only 16% of pregnant women living with HIV access antiretroviral medicines.