New Code of Good Practice can underpin effective, comprehensive responses to AIDS epidemic
23 November 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The importance of social justice and equality to effectively combat the global AIDS epidemic has been reinforced by new statistics published by UNAIDS, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance (the Alliance) said today.
“The UN report makes clear that too many HIV/AIDS strategies assume a greater level of choice about sex, particularly among women, than actually exists in many parts of the world. Everyone in the AIDS response must recognise this in their current programmes – and work to change these economic and social realities. If we don't, we cannot have the greatest impact on the epidemic,” said Alvaro Bermejo, executive director of the Alliance.
Civil society is playing its part to ensure a comprehensive approach to HIV/AIDS by launching a new Code of Good Practice for Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) responding to HIV/AIDS. The code, to be launched around the world on 1 December (World Aids Day), brings together a human rights and health agenda, and sets out the extensive body of knowledge that already exists about how to respond to HIV/AIDS effectively.
“While there is an urgent need to scale up HIV/AIDS programmes, it is also vital that we advocate for law and policy reform as an essential part of an effective response. The new code of good practice will help NGOs do this with one louder voice,” said Bermejo.
“Laws, policies, social norms and community attitudes and perceptions shape the environment in which we respond to HIV/AIDS. Advancing the human rights of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA), women and affected communities, must remain central to an effective response,” he added.
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Editor's notes:
1. For more information and to arrange interviews, please contact Simon Moore.
T: 01273 718744. E: smoore@aidsalliance.org
2. The NGO HIV/AIDS Code of Practice Project is a joint initiative of Action Aid International • CARE USA • Global Health Council • GNP+ • Grupo Pela Vidda • Hong Kong AIDS Foundation • ICASO • International Federation of Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies • International Harm Reduction Association • International HIV/AIDS Alliance • World Council of Churches. Further information about the project and the full version of Renewing Our Voice: Code of Good Practice for NGOs Responding to HIV/AIDS is available from www.ifrc.org/what/health/hivaids/code/
3. The International HIV/AIDS Alliance has been supporting community action on AIDS in developing countries since 1993. It has worked with community organisations from over 40 developing countries, provided financial support to over 2,500 projects (implemented by over 1,800 community and faith-based groups), and channelled over USD 100 million to organisations across the world. Expenditure in 2004 alone is anticipated to be a further USD 35 million.
