Public Attitudes Towards HIV/AIDS in Bulgaria
A recent survey conducted in Bulgaria revealed that a quarter of the population is open to maintaining friendships with individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Interestingly, men displayed slightly higher levels of tolerance compared to women, with 28% of men and 23% of women expressing willingness to maintain such friendships.
The survey, conducted by Trend and commissioned by the Health Without Borders association, was carried out between November 8th and 15th, 2024. It involved a direct standardized interview with 1,006 adults aged 18 and above, providing a representative sample of the Bulgarian population in this age group.
Despite the positive trend in accepting HIV-positive individuals as friends, the survey also highlighted a significant reluctance towards accepting them in more intimate aspects of life. Only 3% of respondents expressed willingness to marry someone living with HIV/AIDS. This willingness was highest among the youngest respondents (18-29 years old) at 19%, dropping to 8% among individuals over 60 years old.
The survey also revealed that unemployed individuals displayed the highest tolerance towards HIV-positive individuals, with 43% expressing willingness to maintain friendships. Additionally, 23% of respondents were open to playing sports with someone living with HIV/AIDS.
Interestingly, residents of regional cities and university graduates demonstrated the highest levels of tolerance, with 28% and 26% respectively expressing willingness to maintain friendships with HIV-positive individuals. In contrast, residents of villages displayed significantly lower levels of tolerance, with only 14% expressing such willingness.
These findings suggest a gradual shift in public attitudes towards HIV/AIDS in Bulgaria, with increasing acceptance of individuals living with the virus in social settings. However, significant challenges remain in terms of acceptance in more intimate aspects of life, highlighting the need for continued awareness and education efforts to combat stigma and discrimination.