Barriers to HIV Testing: An Intersectionality-Based Policy Analysis of Migrant Health in Belgium, France, and Germany

Work Catherine, 2025
The Policy Problem: HIV remains a significant public health challenge in Europe, particularly among migrant populations. In Belgium, France, and Germany, migrants—especially those from Sub-Saharan Africa—face disproportionately high rates of HIV due to structural barriers such as stigma, discrimination, and limited access to healthcare. While all three countries have policies aimed at reducing HIV transmission and improving care, these policies often fail to address the unique challenges faced by migrants, particularly those with precarious legal statuses. This research explores how HIV policies in these countries frame the issue, the gaps in their approaches, and how they can be improved to ensure equitable access to testing and care for all. Key Findings: Framing of HIV Policies: Belgium, France, and Germany all recognize migrants as a vulnerable group, but their policies often reinforce stereotypes by linking HIV risk primarily to migration from Sub-Saharan Africa. This framing can perpetuate stigma and overlook other at-risk populations. While Belgium emphasizes human rights and inclusivity, France integrates HIV into broader sexual health strategies, and Germany focuses on containment and individual responsibility. None fully address the structural barriers that migrants face, such as legal status, language barriers, and fear of deportation. Accessibility and Inequities: Migrants, especially undocumented individuals, face significant barriers to HIV testing and care. These include bureaucratic hurdles, lack of culturally sensitive services, and limited outreach in underserved areas. Policies in all three countries promote community-based testing and self-testing, but these initiatives often fail to reach the most vulnerable due to systemic inequities. Policy Responses: Belgium’s HIV Plan prioritizes equitable care but lacks a national testing policy, leading to inconsistent access. France’s strategy emphasizes universal access but does not adequately address the legal and linguistic barriers faced by migrants. Germany’s approach focuses on culturally sensitive services but remains prevention-centric, with limited provisions for undocumented migrants. Social Added Value and Impact: This research highlights the urgent need for more inclusive and intersectional HIV policies that address the structural barriers faced by migrants. By identifying gaps in current policies and proposing feasible alternatives—such as mobile clinics, co-created initiatives, and routine opt-out testing—this study aims to improve health outcomes for migrants and reduce HIV transmission rates. The findings have the potential to inform policymakers, healthcare providers, and NGOs, fostering a more equitable and effective approach to HIV care in Europe.

Promotor Sorana Toma
Opleiding Global Health
Kernwoorden HIV testing, Migrants, Policy analysis, Belgium, France, Germany, Intersectionality-Based Policy Analysis