The Alliance at AIDS 2006
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Summing up the Toronto conference
This year’s International AIDS Conference, held in Toronto, was a huge event, with the focus on politics and networking, as much as learning.
Though no groundbreaking announcements were made, the conference highlighted areas that the international community needs to focus on – from areas of concern, such as the limited progress in scaling up global access to prevention, and lack of clarity and consensus around universal access, to areas of real progress, such as the role of circumcision in HIV prevention.
The Alliance was visible at conference, pushing debates, asking questions, and influencing agendas. Find out more about the Alliance’s involvement, and about some of the high and low points of the conference: Reflecting on the XVI International AIDS Conference in Toronto. |
Around the world
Stigma and discrimination
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Life with dignity
A project to reduce HIV-related stigma and discrimination in four cities in the central states of Mexico, Vida Digna (Life with dignity), is taking a holistic approach to HIV.
The three-year project works with sex workers, men who have sex with men and people living with HIV – groups which have been identified as being key to the dynamics of the region’s epidemic.
These groups frequently experience stigma, discrimination and human rights violations – which set a challenging context for HIV work. Three new case studies from the project highlight these challenges and the urgent needs that these groups face.
Work carried out as part of Vida Digna includes advocacy for access to services and HIV prevention, the provision of information, and outreach peer support work. Strengthening groups to respond to stigma and discrimination is a key part of making this work more effective.
Ending the loneliness
Pedro's life on the street was characterised by drug use, violence and extreme poverty. An HIV positive test result led him to help other people living in similar difficult situations. He is now training to participate as a promoter in the Genesis project which aims to reduce the impact of HIV on affected communities by reducing stigma and discrimination.
Bringing together transgender sex workers and local police to raise awareness
Fortaleciendo Identidades y Diversidades, a community organisation involved in the Vida Digna (Life with dignity) project, has organised awareness raising workshops for transgender sex workers and local police to challenge stigma and discrimination which undermines HIV prevention work and access to HIV services.
Arrested after speaking out
The day after denouncing the rights violations and arbitrary arrests that transgender sex workers face, Norma was arrested. Frightened and furious, Norma and others have in Ser Gay - part of the Vida Digna (Life with dignity) project - started negotiations with the State Human Rights Commission, which has resulted in the opening of a 24 hour telephone service to support those that have been arbitrarily arrested. |
Charity award
Security warning
And finally...
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The chance to have your say
Keep an eye out for our survey for readers of The Loop, in next month's issue.
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Sexual health needs
New Alliance resources
Other Alliance links
Supporting the Alliance
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