This factsheet highlights the low social status of prisoners and how this can mean they are marginalised and excluded from the mainstream of society. They experience stigma and discrimination behind bars and are often regarded as 'unworthy' in the general community. Prisoners face discrimination because of their status as 'prisoners' (i.e. criminal record and incarceration), because of what being in prison is associated with (drug use, same-sex activities and violence), and what it might lead to (HIV infection). The race or sexuality of a prisoner also amplifies HIV-related stigma and discrimination.
