NTOMBIFIKILE MTSHALI | The lessons of ‘The Polygamist’ (opens original article in a new tab)

Netflix's The Polygamist sparks conversation about HIV, polygamy, and gender norms in South Africa, highlighting the need for better HIV prevention and addressing harmful social norms.

• The Polygamist series portrays the impact of polygamous relationships and HIV in South Africa
• The show highlights harmful social norms around masculinity and gender inequality
• HIV is framed as a consequence of infidelity rather than a health condition
• The series shows the need to address gender-based power dynamics and improve HIV prevention