HIV/AIDS Securitization: Outcomes and Current Challenges

Curr HIV Res. 2017;15(2):78-81. doi: 10.2174/1570162X15666170516163834.

Abstract

Background: The securitization (i.e., framing of a health issue as a security threat) of HIV/AIDS by the United Nations Security Council in 2000 changed the belief that HIV/AIDS is only a health issue. Although now accepted that HIV/AIDS represents a security threat, the consequences of securitization are still not widely established.

Methods: The purpose of this paper was to present an evidence-based review of the outcomes and current challenges associated with HIV/AIDS securitization in the context of national security.

Results/conclusion: We provided an overview of HIV/AIDS securitization, followed by a discussion of the impact of securitization on peacekeeping personnel and uniformed services. We also reviewed the United States Government's response to securitization and potential risks and benefits of securitization.

Keywords: AIDS; HIV; international; military; national; peacekeeping; security.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / epidemiology*
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / transmission*
  • Communicable Disease Control / methods*
  • Health Policy
  • Humans
  • Security Measures*
  • United States / epidemiology