The workings of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) citizenship amongst queer men in Denmark
In:
Affiliations
- [1] University of Copenhagen [NORA names: KU University of Copenhagen; University; Denmark; Europe, EU; Nordic; OECD]
Abstract
In 2019, oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a HIV prevention pill, was made available for ‘at-risk’ populations in Denmark, with uptake primarily seen amongst men who have sex with men. While PrEP has revolutionised HIV prevention by simultaneously providing sexual freedom and protection from HIV, it is accompanied by firm medical and social surveillance, through which, some commentators argue, PrEP citizenships are produced. This article draws on visual ethnographic data to explore how PrEP users in Denmark experience and reflect on the types of ‘work’ involved with, and moralities arising from, this PrEP citizenship. We argue that PrEP citizenship is contingent on the resources and abilities of individuals to proactively engage with this ‘work’ and balance the moral ambiguities of PrEP in relation to both local communities and their obligations concerning the Danish welfare state.