JADS

What is JADS?

The Jamaica Anti-Discrimination System for HIV (JADS) is a national system that collects cases of HIV-related discrimination and refers them to the appropriate entities for redress. Submitting cases to the JADS can result in:

• Receive an Apology

• Conflict Resolution

• Go to court

• The problem fixed

• Report to Police

• Referral for counseling or social assistance

• Sensitization session with alleged offended and/or community

• No Action (I just want to report the incident)

HIV-related Discrimination

Examples of discrimination experienced by persons living with HIV includes:

• Breach of confidentiality

• Denied employment

• Harassment/verbal abuse

• Denied access to healthcare

• Forced to leave home/community

• Physical violence

Why is JADS important?

• Plays an important role in reducing stigma and discrimination towards people living with HIV, and gender-based-violence

• Advocates for person’s human rights

• Connects individuals with redress options

Why do cases need to be reported?

• To empower people living with and affected by HIV and AIDS

• To evaluate laws & institutions (identify gaps for law revision & institutional changes)

• To increase accountability

• To measure the effectiveness of strategies & initiatives, and design new ones

HOW DOES THE JADS WORK?