The rules on who can join the British armed forces are changing and the Ministry of Defence will make it easier for people with HIV to join the British armed forces. The announcement came on World AIDS Day.
Can all HIV-positive people join the armed forces?
It’s not a simple green light, and people who do not have extremely detectable HIV levels are the ones that the military is looking for.
Expanding on the decision an online statement notes that, “People who do not have HIV but who are taking Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) medication to protect against potential infection will now be able to join and serve in the Armed Forces with no restrictions. Urgent work is also underway to allow candidates with HIV, but on treatment and whose blood tests show no detectable virus, to join the Armed Forces.”
Existing British armed forces personnel with an HIV diagnosis don’t have to worry about active duty. This means that HIV will not affect their ability to perform. They will be allowed to take up active duty if they are fit enough.
British armed forces and inclusivity
This is a step in the right direction, given that inclusivity is one of the core values in the military. The armed forces are known to break barriers and open doors for people. It’s not surprising that they are now helping HIV-positive people to join.
The Minister for Defence People and Veterans Leo Docherty spoke about the decision. He went onto explain that the decision to allow people with HIV to join the British armed forces, Minister for Defence People and Veterans Leo Docherty said:
“Drug treatment has revolutionised the lives and outcomes of people diagnosed with HIV. As a modern and inclusive employer, it is only right that we recognise and act on the latest scientific evidence. I’m delighted that an exciting and fulfilling career in the armed forces is now open to many more people.”
Policy changes
In the past, policy dictated that people with HIV could not become a part of the armed forces. In case someone got infected, they used to be automatically deemed unfit. And in most cases they could kiss deployment goodbye.
Medical advancements have truly changed the game for those infected because the virus can now be contained. So, if someone’s virus is restricted enough for it to fall to undetectable levels, they can enlist. This is because the chance of infection becomes minimal for others. The British armed forces are pioneers of change and this will help more people join.
The move is an interesting one. Moreover, one has to wonder whether in the future other conditions will also come under scrutiny.
This is a welcome change and it will go a long way towards helping ensure that support for soldiers and their dreams remains consistent.
The new policy is will kick off in 2022.
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