OA19.03
Background: Homophobia, stigma and criminalization hamper efforts to include MSM in HIV research and programming in Africa when gay men and other MSM are at high risk for HIV. Trial sites and community advocates must consider how to best make use of media to “humanize” MSM and support research while protecting individual confidentiality and safety and the stability of trial sites, especially as new harsh anti-gay laws are passed.
Methods: After a Washington Post article quoted gay Africans and forced a Nigerian man to seek asylum in the US advocates were inspired to develop media engagement best practices. At ICASA 2013, AVAC and IRMA convened two sessions for MSM to collect strategies to maximize benefits and minimize harms when engaging media. Conversations with journalists explored strategies for reporting on MSM. We are documenting tactics to share with researchers, advocates and media.
Results: Participants discussed courting journalists and harnessing personal stories to gain media attention while protecting identities. They noted the need to balance safety with visibility, and strategized how to do both. Media was seen as critical to counteract homophobia with public health messages for inclusion of MSM in HIV research and services. Yet even positive stories that include names or other identifying details can put individuals and organizations at risk. Experienced advocates shared methods to respond to and avoid crises, including the use of media generated by MSM. Journalists noted the importance of educating editors.
Conclusions: Best practices for garnering media coverage that is sensitive, safe, accurate and benefits vulnerable groups in HIV research should be shared with advocates and researchers, particularly in criminalized settings. Communication plans particular to MSM will assure recruitment, retention and protection of research participants and integrity of research sites. Education of journalists about needs of vulnerable populations and benefits of research programs should be a priority.
