Russian influence in eastern Europe and central Asia is fueling a worsening HIV epidemic, according to health leaders. New diagnoses of HIV in the region have increased by 20% since 2010, with Aids-related deaths rising by 34%. Most new infections are among key populations such as people who inject drugs, sex workers, and gay men.
Efforts to prevent infections and improve treatment are being hindered by Russian-linked propaganda targeting services such as opioid replacement therapy and the LGBTQ+ community. “Foreign agent” laws in several countries, similar to those in Russia, are forcing charities receiving overseas funding to register and imposing onerous reporting requirements, leading to some organizations withdrawing.
Michel Kazatchkine, special advisor to WHO Europe, cited growing Russian influence in neighboring countries, funding propaganda, security services, and interior ministries. Laws in the region criminalize activities like sex work, drug possession, and same-sex relationships, hindering access to healthcare.
Kazatchkine gave an example of harmful Russian propaganda in Kazakhstan, where an opioid agonist therapy program was almost closed due to conflicting messages from different sources regarding the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.
In Ukraine, the national HIV care program has resumed after disruption caused by the Russian invasion, although a wider humanitarian approach is now necessary. Andriy Klepikov, executive director of the Ukrainian charity Alliance for Public Health, emphasized the need to address broader humanitarian needs along with HIV prevention and treatment. Migrant workers from central Asian countries fear deportation if they seek HIV treatment in Russia.
Health leaders warn that Russian influence, coupled with restrictive laws and policies, is exacerbating the HIV epidemic in eastern Europe and central Asia, emphasizing the urgent need for improved access to healthcare and prevention services in the region.
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