The HIV Endemic in Pakistan: the Way Forward

HIV remains one of the world’s most significant public health challenges, yet misconceptions, stigma and lack of awareness continue to hinder effective prevention and treatment. In Pakistan, the number of new HIV infections has risen in recent years, with outbreaks in several communities highlighting weaknesses in healthcare systems, public awareness, and disease surveillance.

What factors are driving the spread of HIV in Pakistan? How do social stigma and misinformation affect testing and treatment? What lessons can be learned from successful public health interventions around the world? And what role should healthcare professionals, policymakers, educators, the media, and civil society play in preventing new infections while ensuring dignity and care for those living with HIV?

About the Panelists:

• Dr. Hassan Abbas Zaheer
  (Former National Program Manager: National AIDS Control Program)
• Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Junior
  (Socio-political Activist and Chair of ZAB Rabta Committee)
• Bubbli Malik
  (Transgender Rights Activist, Executive Director: Wajood Society)
• Ghazal Abbasi
  (Reporter and Producer – BBC Eye Investigations)
• M. Waqar Bhatti
  (Health Journalist in Print and Electronic)
• Usama Khilji
  (Columnist, Rights Activist — Moderator)

This session is free and open to all. Just visit the venue to attend it.

The Black Hole
Plot 5H, Street 100, G-11/3, Islamabad.
Click here for Google Maps Location