Faith Leaders Strengthening the Response to HIV and Stigma in Malmö
On 16 May 2026, the HIV & Faith Project, supported by the Swedish Public Health Agency (Folkhälsomyndigheten), brought together faith leaders from churches, mosques, and other faith communities for a reference group training at Noaks Ark Mosaik’s office in Malmö.
The training aimed to strengthen knowledge about HIV, reduce stigma, and improve understanding of how people can access health services in Sweden. Around eight faith leaders participated in discussions on HIV basic science, stigma and taboos, and the important relationship between faith and health-seeking behavior.
One of the trainers, Pastor Kenny Palmer, a member of the HIV & Faith Reference Group, pastor at Redeemed Christian Church of God Restoration Assembly in Malmö, and a regional nurse, led a session on “Health-Seeking Behavior and Faith.” A key message from her presentation was that Christian faith does not prevent people from seeking medical help. Instead, faith communities can play a vital role in encouraging individuals to access healthcare, seek HIV testing, and support those living with HIV without judgment or discrimination.
Participants highlighted the need for more training and ongoing dialogue within faith communities. The session reinforced the important role faith leaders play in challenging stigma, promoting accurate health information, and creating supportive environments for their congregations.
The training has already opened new opportunities for community engagement. Several participants expressed interest in bringing HIV education into their faith spaces, and Pastor Kenny has invited the HIV & Faith team to speak at the men’s fellowship in her church.
The HIV & Faith Project continues to build partnerships with faith communities, recognizing their unique position to promote health, dignity, inclusion, and stigma-free conversations about HIV.
