Podcast 53: On HIV/AIDS Work in Iran, an Interview with Drs. Arash and Kamiar Alaei

On HIV/AIDS Work in Iran, an Interview with Drs. Arash and Kamiar Alaei

Today’s podcast covers the story and work of Arash and Kamiar Alaei, two Iranian doctors who were arrested and imprisoned for their work as advocates of social change in their country.

Drs. Arash and Kamiar Alaei are brothers who built one of the world’s most successful community-based approaches to treat and fight HIV/AIDS in Iran. Their work included a widespread use of needle-exchange programs, as well as using methadone management for therapy. In addition, the brothers would often advocate for their patients in other ways, including asking bosses to rehire fired employees or pleading with families to reunite with estranged loved-ones who were infected.

In 2008 they were arrested on charges of “communicating with an enemy government and conspiracy to overthrow the Iranian government.” They were sent to Evin Prison, but after an international campaign on their behalf, the brothers were released, Kamiar in December 2010 and Arash in August 2011.