HIV/AIDS: The labour market implications of compulsory testing

Abstract

Objective: It is intended in this brief paper to outline the policy direction that ought to be followed regarding the phenomenon of HIV/AIDS and the workplace. In essence, this is a viewpoint instructed by data and research and not anecdotal evidence. Methods: This is not primary research as it utilizes secondary material from existing literature as well as data from government sources. The method is a strict narrative regarding the data and frequencies and there are no sophisticated statistical packages used for data analysis. Results: On examining the data, it is clear that young women are disproportionately represented in the HIV and unemployment data. Conclusion: It is therefore likely that if testing for the purposes of employment is allowed to continue, it will create a disincentive to seek employment and thus will help to drive the infection underground.