Gender parity is the key in the fight against HIV/AIDS, according to this report focusing on Swaziland and Botswana, the two countries with the world's highest prevalence rates. The study, based on over 2,000 respondents in Botswana and Swaziland, found that four key factors contributed to women's vulnerability to HIV/AIDS: their lack of control over sexual decision-making, including the decision to use a condom; the prevalence of HIV-related stigma and discrimination; gender-discriminatory beliefs (associated with sexual risk-taking) and a failure of traditional and government leadership to promote the equality, autonomy, and economic independence of women. 2007.

Owner: Physicians for Human Rights