The World Health Organization estimates that there are 650 million people with a disability. Eighty percent of them live in a developing country and are below the age of 45. The voice of 650 million times one (www.thevoiceof650million.com) is a documentary about people with a disability in developing countries who despite cultural and social stigma keep fighting for a dignified life. The film takes you through Asia and Africa and portrays their world of exclusion regarding sexuality, HIV and reproductive health in a dignified and touching way.
We are honoured to have one of the film’s subjects, Mary Muthoni Rop with us from Kenya to share her experiences of being a disabled person living with HIV.
"What I face is a triple stigma. I'm disabled, and many people in Africa see that as being a burden to society. I'm a woman, and am seen as the weaker sex, which doesn't often have a voice here. And I'm HIV positive, with all the issues that brings."
After the documentary showing (35 mins), UNAIDS will present their Disability and HIV Policy Brief, and there will be time for questions with Mary Muthoni Rop and Jessica de Ruijter.
Speakers:
Denis Haveaux, UNAIDS
Mary Muthoni Rop, HIV+ disabled activist from Kenya
Jessica de Ruijter, VSO NL/IDDC
Please register your attendance by 15th June by emailing Fiona Koefoed-Jespersen, EU-CORD with your name, position and organisation.