In 1986, Jordan faced its first AIDS infection, leading to the creation of the National AIDS Program within the Ministry of Health. Initially, the program's impact was limited to case registrations and referrals. However, in 2004, a significant shift occurred when the Ministry secured funding from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS for a new project within the National Program to Fight HIV/AIDS. Dr. Abdullah Hanatleh was appointed Executive Director, and under his leadership, the program transformed significantly.

"Since the project began, the national program has made a qualitative and quantitative leap, becoming more effective in awareness programs, outreach, and preventive measures," recalls Dr. Hanatleh. The program expanded its efforts to include educational and awareness events, examination programs, and treatment provisions, all aimed at reaching target groups effectively.

Despite this progress, in 2012, the grant was discontinued as Jordan transitioned into a high middle-income country, making it ineligible for further funding. The National Program then reverted to its former status of case registration and referral only.

This setback fueled Dr. Hanatleh's determination. Recognizing the impact the Global Fund project had and the potential lives at stake, he collaborated with colleagues Nisreen Al-Sarhan and Sahar Al Shamayleh to establish a non-governmental organization. This led to the birth of the Forearms of Change Center to Enable Community (FOCCEC), initially funded from their own pockets.

Reaching Vulnerable Groups in Jordan

At FOCCEC's inception, government efforts were reactive, focusing on testing and treatment with little emphasis on prevention. Dr. Hanatleh's team shifted their approach to prioritize preventive measures. They designed outreach programs targeting vulnerable and marginalized groups, including LGBT communities, drug addicts, and sex workers. FOCCEC's unique use of peer-educators from these communities, who understood their peers' challenges and were trusted within their circles, proved highly effective in reducing new HIV/AIDS cases.

“Our prevention efforts have a singular objective: reducing cases. It's a ripple effect, with each case potentially transmitting the infection to five more individuals,” explains Dr. Hanatleh. “Every case we discover and reach translates into significant financial savings and underscores the immeasurable value of our outreach efforts, both in human lives and financial resources.”

However, the unique social circumstances and sensitivity surrounding these groups pose challenges. Dr. Hanatleh describes the situation as navigating a field of landmines, emphasizing the complexities of reaching marginalized communities and establishing effective partnerships.

Services That Make a Difference

FOCCEC offers comprehensive services tailored to the needs of people living with HIV in Jordan. These services include case management with personalized plans to address challenges in accessing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services. FOCCEC extends its reach through social media platforms and field visits, emphasizing the importance of SRHR within target communities.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, UNFPA Jordan, the Anti-Narcotics Department, and local NGOs, FOCCEC provides a full package of services. These include Voluntary Counseling and Testing, Psychosocial Support, a dedicated Hotline, Cash Assistance for emergencies, continuous Follow-up and Aftercare, Home Visits, Legal Consultation, Safe Space creation, Media and Awareness campaigns, and partnerships with specialized medical professionals. These services form the core of FOCCEC's mission to support and empower those affected by HIV/AIDS in Jordan.

I wish that we will stop looking at the cases as 'numbers' and start seeing them as human lives.

Dr. Hanatleh

The Way Forward

"When we established FOCCEC, we initially funded its operations ourselves," Dr. Hanatleh reflects. "At that moment, my hope was that we could sustain it for another three years – that would have been a significant achievement."

Today, after 11 years, FOCCEC stands as Jordan's sole NGO dedicated to HIV/AIDS issues, providing crucial support and information. FOCCEC's impact extends beyond national borders, providing Shadow reports to global human rights institutions and advocating for the rights and well-being of those affected by HIV/AIDS on an international scale. Annually, FOCCEC administers approximately 3,000 HIV/AIDS tests and has been responsible for identifying nearly 40% of registered HIV/AIDS cases in Jordan.

Dr. Hanatleh envisions FOCCEC as a holistic provider of HIV/AIDS care, offering a complete spectrum of services under one roof. This innovative model includes medication, counseling, awareness campaigns, and hospitalization when required. The goal is to empower individuals to access these comprehensive services with utmost privacy, dismantling the stigma that often surrounds HIV/AIDS in Jordan.

Those living with HIV are often closer to us than we realize. Stigmatization and fear of judgment prevent many from disclosing their status. FOCCEC's mission is to provide medical support and create a society where people living with HIV can live without fear and prejudice.

Amr’s* Story

Amr, a 28-year-old, was diagnosed with HIV in 2023 after visiting the FOCCEC. Reflecting on his experience, he shared:

"A year ago, my life was normal. I was full of life, loved people, and trusted them. But after I was diagnosed with HIV, the world turned black in my face. I was unconscious and cannot remember what happened to me that day."

Amr continued, "I lost my passion for life and felt like my back had been broken. I was in a state of complete collapse, but the team at FOCCEC contained me. They were my family, conducting thorough examinations and covering all the costs."

Expressing his hope for the future, he said, "I wish I could eliminate this disease from the world so that no one would be infected with it, because it hurts the infected person psychologically in a horrible way."

Addressing the public, Amr urged, "I tell people not to be afraid of those infected with HIV. They are just like you. Do not reject them; they need you to stand with them. Your support makes a big difference to them."

Changing Perspectives and The Hidden Faces of HIV

"I wish that we will stop looking at the cases as 'numbers' and start seeing them as human lives," says Dr. Hanatleh. FOCCEC aims to foster understanding and empathy, changing societal attitudes towards HIV/AIDS.

Dr. Hanatleh and FOCCEC are pioneers in Jordan's fight against HIV/AIDS, paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate society. Their holistic approach and unwavering dedication are saving lives and transforming the landscape of HIV/AIDS care, addressing it with care, respect, and empathy. Through their work, they hope to build a future where HIV/AIDS is no longer a source of fear and discrimination, but a health challenge addressed with dignity and support.

*The name has been changed to protect his identity.