Two pioneering Iranian doctors who were jailed in Iran have received the “Elizabeth Taylor” award at the opening of the world’s largest AIDS conference in Washington.The two brothers, Arash and Kamiar Alaei, were awarded the prize on July 22 by the International AIDS Society (IAS) and the Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR), for their work in HIV prevention and their efforts at advocating human rights in the field of HIV.
“In advocating for the health and human rights of Iranians living with and at risk [of] HIV, the Alaei brothers demonstrated tremendous courage and fortitude,” said Kenneth Cole, Chairman of the Board of amfAR.
The brothers have previously been jailed in Tehran’s Evin prison for some two years on security charges.
More than 20,000 scientists, people living with HIV, and policy makers are attending the conference that takes place on July 22 – 27.
By RFE/RL