Legal Guidance Services: A Ally for Human Rights Defenders

The need for legal guidance services for key populations is a topic that has gained relevance in contemporary society, especially in the context of the fight against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Despite legislative advances that guarantee equality before the law and non-discrimination, many people continue to face barriers that limit their access to health services and the protection of their rights. Among these populations are transgender individuals, men who have sex with men, and those living with HIV, who are often subjected to stigmatization and discrimination. The Constitution of the Republic establishes that all people are equal and enjoy rights without discrimination; however, social reality shows that prejudices and behaviors affecting vulnerable groups persist. This is particularly concerning in the context of HIV, where stigmatization can have severe consequences for public health by limiting access to adequate and timely medical care. Gender-based violence and structural inequality further complicate this situation, exacerbating the plight of these groups. In response to this issue, Cuba has developed a strategy that incorporates a human rights approach in its prevention and control of HIV. The National Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of STIs and HIV focuses on reducing discriminatory attitudes and ensuring that people living with HIV have access to appropriate and non-prejudiced health services. In this context, Legal Guidance Services (SOJ) emerge as a fundamental tool to support key populations in defending their rights. The SOJ focuses on providing information, legal advice, and representation to those facing discrimination or violence due to their serological status or gender identity. This comprehensive approach aims not only to address the legal needs of these individuals but also to empower them in asserting their rights. Since their establishment in 2019, these services have been consolidated across the country and are managed by multidisciplinary teams that include legal experts, gender specialists, and social workers, all committed to defending human rights. Since their inception, various forms of access to these services have been identified, including face-to-face assistance and the possibility of conducting consultations through electronic means. This flexibility is crucial, as many people belonging to vulnerable groups may experience fear or distrust when seeking help. Confidentiality and respect for privacy are fundamental principles guiding the work of the SOJ, ensuring that individuals feel safe sharing their experiences and needs. One of the main focuses of the SOJ is to identify structural barriers that limit access to health services. This includes not only medical care but also access to legal and social resources that are essential for improving the quality of life of people living with HIV. By providing comprehensive and specific care for their needs, the SOJ becomes a valuable ally in the process of restoring rights. The fight against discrimination and gender-based violence is another key area in which the SOJ is committed. Gender-based violence affects not only women but also has a significant impact on men and individuals of other gender identities. Therefore, awareness-raising and training on gender issues become essential to dismantle stereotypes and attitudes that perpetuate inequality. As the implementation of the SOJ progresses, significant challenges arise, such as the normalization of discriminatory attitudes and the promotion of a more inclusive rights-based approach in Cuban society. These actions are necessary to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their serological status, can access health and justice services without fear of being stigmatized or rejected. Finally, it is important to consider that Legal Guidance Services not only serve as a defense mechanism for vulnerable groups but also function as a bridge between the community and state institutions. This facilitates dialogue and cooperation among different actors in the fight against HIV and the promotion of human rights, creating a more conducive environment for inclusion and respect. Thus, the future of work in this area will depend on society's ability to recognize diversity and ensure that every person has a voice and access to their rights, regardless of their status or identity.