Access to HIV Services for Mobile and Migrant Populations in Antigua

There is clearly a lot of stigma and discrimination even among healthcare workers towards HIV+
persons. Among the persons interviewed there is a general atmosphere of xenophobia and
homophobia and persons who fall within these groups often felt very disillusioned about
accessing services.
Many of the commercial sex workers interviewed expressed a desire to work in other
professions, but options were limited due to immigration status, language barriers, limited
education or skills and the current situation of unemployment in Antigua. .
Limitations
The study was not without its challenges. While anecdotal evidence suggests a large number of
migrants who are sex workers and men who have sex with men, the documented numbers are
much smaller. As a result, the sample was based on a percentage of the documented population
and while homogenous, is not a true representation of the total core group populations.
It was also difficult getting information from some of the stakeholders who were difficult to
reach or did not have much to report.
Recommendations
Based on all the findings, the recommendations suggested, if executed, could result in the
various stakeholder agencies being more effective in rendering services to members of the target
populations. They are categorized as follows:
Stakeholders – more capacity building is necessary in the form of training and also capital to
expand services. Training in program development and in cultural competence to reduce stigma
and discrimination is important. A guide can be developed for FBO to guide them on how they
can be more effective in the outreach and support process. Better unity and collaboration is also
needed for the various agencies to work together to provide a network of services.
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