SWAZILAND: Army to Reject HIV-Positive Recruits

Swaziland officials announced last week that the country's armed forces would not accept HIV-positive recruits.

"The army is experiencing a rise in HIV/AIDS-related illnesses and deaths, and this has adverse effects on the overall mission and preparedness, and may eventually lead to insecurity in the country," the Royal Defence Force was quoted as saying in a policy statement.

HIV testing would also extend to all army personnel, including air controllers who are part of the military, Reuters reported.

Lobby groups have criticised the policy as discriminatory, saying it would provoke a personnel crisis. "Army recruitment is likely to suffer because HIV testing is unpopular, and in Swaziland it is taboo to acknowledge that you are HIV-positive," said AIDS activist Thulani Simelane.

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[This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]