Programatic vulnerability and public care: overview of HIV and AIDS prevention policies for gay men and other MSM in Brazil

Abstract

The resurgence of the HIV epidemic among gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) is indicative of limitations or failures in prevention policies directed to this group. Based on the theoretical approaches of vulnerability and Care, we analyze the panorama of HIV/AIDS prevention policies for gays and other MSM in Brazil using national documents that support prevention policies of HIV/AIDS and documents produced by nongovernmental organizations and by the LGBT National Conferences. We identified, in the documents analyzed, three readings that support prevention policies: a) epidemiological; b) preventive responsibility; c) based on human rights and vulnerability. The dispute, denial and hegemony of each of these perspectives at different times allows us to understand some of the challenges and barriers faced in preventing HIV and AIDS among gays and other MSM. Our analysis shows changes in the intensity and quality of the dialogue between state and society. The fragile formalization and restricted scope of the documents stand out as limitations in the effectuation of a prevention approach based on vulnerability and human rights, as well as the incorporation of the Public Care perspective. We reiterate the importance of a qualified dialogue with the individuals involved in the policies to hear their needs, aspirations and critics.