RNGO “ISHONCH VA HAYOT”

Uzbeki NGO, ISHONCH VA HAYOT, recognises that viral hepatitis (B and C) is not only a medical issue but also a social one, often linked to stigma, poverty, and marginalisation. The organisation integrates the fight against hepatitis into its broader mission to protect health, dignity, and human rights, particularly among people living with HIV, those who use drugs, and other vulnerable groups.

Their work focuses on addressing the barriers that prevent people from accessing testing, diagnosis, and treatment. These include low awareness, fear, discrimination, and financial hardship. ISHONCH VA HAYOT believes that the involvement of affected communities is essential to closing these gaps and ensuring no one is left behind.

Key areas of work include:

• Education and Awareness: Creating and distributing simple, accessible information about hepatitis through social media, printed materials, peer counselling, and public campaigns.
• Combating Stigma: Promoting open conversations, challenging myths, and sharing real-life stories to change public perception and encourage testing and treatment.
• Navigation and Support: Assisting individuals through the process from testing to treatment, helping with appointments, communication with healthcare providers, and ongoing motivation.
• Healthcare Partnerships: Working with medical institutions to improve the quality and accessibility of services, contribute to programme development, and monitor the availability of diagnostics and treatment.
• Advocacy and Rights: Campaigning for free and equitable access to hepatitis services, pushing for the inclusion of community voices in national health strategies, and mobilising resources and donor support.
• Mutual Support and Safe Spaces: Running support groups, offering psychological assistance, and encouraging treatment adherence through community solidarity.

In line with its charter, ISHONCH VA HAYOT actively promotes access to hepatitis treatment, supports prevention and harm reduction initiatives, and advocates for reducing the cost of medicines and diagnostic tools. The organisation is committed to being an equal partner in achieving the goal of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030.