More needed in HIV and AIDS fight

At the CAFOD-funded St Francis Home-Based Care programme in Livingstone, Zambia, volunteers are trained to care for those with HIV [Annie Bungeroth]

Following the major UN General Assembly meeting in New York on HIV and AIDS, the world must do more in the fight against the disease

After three days of heated debate in the UNGASS (United Nations General Assembly Special Session) on HIV and AIDS, CAFOD says more has to be done for the millions living with the virus.

CAFOD’s Director Chris Bain was part of the delegation of the Caritas International, the alliance of Catholic Church aid agencies. He said: "It was three days of intense negotiations between UN member states as well as amongst civil society groups.

"In a week that marks the 25th anniversary of the first documented Aids cases, we still need to do a lot more."

Government leaders had gathered in New York to renew the promises they made in 2001 and further commit to the fight against HIV and AIDS in a form of a new Declaration of Commitment, and there was also a strong civil society presence to lobby governments.

Chris Bain pointed out that whilst there was some progress in recognising the need for universal access to treatment, care, support and prevention, particularly focussed on the rights and welfare of women and children, the declaration was a disappointment. He said:

"In the final draft of the Declaration we hoped to see world governments building on the promises made in 2001, committing to real measurable targets both in funding and in providing effective responses to individuals and countries worst affected by HIV and AIDS. Instead, we have good intentions without, as yet, the global political will to make them a reality.

"National governments have been asked to set targets this year but they must be set within an international framework that can be tracked and monitored."

Weak declaration

"The Declaration was weak in its commitment to develop and fund local healthcare systems, which have been neglected yet are crucial in supporting the health needs of a country overall."

"But one of the biggest disappointments is that the Declaration does not make strong enough links to the effects of poverty and HIV and AIDS, as these are intrinsically related. Tackle the root causes of poverty and you tackle the root causes of this infection."

Mr Bain comments that it had been a difficult process and that civil society was expecting more from this UNGASS meeting, however CAFOD along with other faith based organizations will be working to hold governments to account both nationally and internationally, to push for stronger commitments and increased, sustained and targeted funding.

"We will build on the positive commitments of this Declaration, continuing to serve the millions of people living with and affected by HIV and AIDS and holding governments to their promises."

For further information please contact Nana Anto-Awuakye on: 020 7326 5560 or 07799 477 541 or nanto-awuakye@cafod.org.uk

take action

Support our partners in their struggle CAFOD has repeatedly asked the UK government to press the Colombian authorities to publicly defend human rights. Please support this call to action and the work of our partners in Colombia by emailing your MP now. YOU can make a difference

Direct Debit A regular donation or gift from you to support CAFOD's charity work can help end poverty. Give regularly. Transform lives

Shop for your Christmas cards and gifts Fairly-traded Christmas cards and gifts make wonderful presents for friends and family, while supporting our vital work at the same time