HIV among migrants in precarious circumstances in the EU and European Economic Area

Abstract

HIV epidemics in the EU and European Economic Area are increasingly diverse in transmission modes and groups affected. Substantial gaps in data exist on HIV burden and access to the HIV continuum of care among migrants living in this region, particularly individuals in precarious circumstances such as migrants with irregular status. Migrants have a higher HIV burden compared with the general population, and high rates of post-migration HIV acquisition. Migrants also face challenges in access to health and HIV services, with irregular migrants, foreign-born key populations such as men who have sex with men, sex workers, and people who inject drugs, and migrants from sub-Saharan Africa being most affected. Intersecting factors negatively affect their access to services along the full continuum of care, including prevention and psychosocial services. Ensuring equitable access to general health and HIV services, regardless of immigration status, and implementing interventions to reduce stigma and discrimination are crucial to ending AIDS by 2030.