African migrants account for the greatest number of new diagnoses of HIV in Britain in recent years, but stigma and discrimination means that many do not come forward for testing or access other health services or support. One of the many factors contributing to the pressure to be silent - and a factor often quoted by migrants themselves - is probably the way the media covers HIV and AIDS.

The report found that in 2006 the press predominantly reported HIV as a disease in Africa. According to Angelina Namiba, who is the Policy and Involvement Manager with Positively Women and has been an advisor for the project, "if you look at what is reported it implies that HIV is something that is out there in Africa. But we have almost about 60,000 people living with HIV here in the UK, so it is an issue here at home." Overall, the report indicates that UK press coverage could do more to promote debate about the underlying inequalities and stigma that make people more vulnerable" to HIV. By correctly report facts about transmission for example, the media can inform people about access to appropriate health services. Yet it is not only the responsibility of the media to speak out. "Although the media is in a powerful position, it can't work in isolation" said Angelina; "people living with HIV and the leaders from the African community need to speak out and engage the media." Neil Gerrard MP also emphasised the vital role of the media in addressing HIV in the UK as well as in other countries, by "presenting accurate information about HIV and challenging any discrimination against people living with HIV." Henry Bonsu of Colourful Radio also called for journalists to not shy away from reporting on HIV in the UK and instead to tackle the issue head on, particularly in the run up to World AIDS Day (1 December). Many of the stories analysed in the report were in fact accurate and avoided stigmatising people and groups, but research with communities revealed contrary perceptions.

This negative perception was often quoted as contributing to the pressure to remain silent and therefore cannot go unchallenged. By talking directly to people living positively with HIV in the African community - encouraging them to tell their stories in their own words - journalists can help break the silence on taboo issues, generate debate, confront stigma, increase understanding and influence policy responses that reflect the priorities and needs of people and communities most affected.