Discrimination Based on Health Grounds : Case Study: Hepatitis B Virus Discrimination in China Labour Employment

Abstract

Nowadays, due to the high prevalence of hepatitis B in China, millions of carriers are faced with discrimination when they come to work, study, health care or even marriage. The same situation also happens to those physically disadvantageous people especially in the access to employment. Employment discrimination detracts from the principle of equality and directly impairs social justice and human dignity. Series of institutional responses are needed to effectively prevent employment discrimination, among which reconstruction on Chinese existing legal system should be given the priority. Besides, other measures can also contribute to prevent discrimination against those in poor health condition. We may also learn from South African experience on elimination HIV/AIDS discrimination at workplace to tackle hepatitis B problem in China. Finally we should not overlook the government s role in facilitating the protection of HBV carriers.