The conference has drawn around 22,000
participants from around the world, including many of the leaders in the global fight against AIDS. Among them are 13 representatives from Concern offices in Haiti, Ethiopia, Kenya, India and Dublin.
“There are no longer bystanders”
As the rates of infection continue to rise in many countries around the world, there is widespread consensus among the participants on the
urgency of ensuring universal access to HIV prevention and treatment.Speaking about the conference, Dr. Pedro Cahn, President of the International AIDS Society said “What we now need is
action on the part of all stakeholders. As we gather in Mexico, each of us must ask ourselves: What can I do to end AIDS? In 2008, there are no longer bystanders in this global
struggle.”
Sharing lessons learned
Many Concern staff are presenting at the conference. For instance Sorel Bertrand, from the Concern office in Haiti, is speaking about dealing
with HIV and stigma. Aparajita Dhar is presenting a series of case histories of people living with the virus in Orissa, India.On their return, each representative will host a feedback meeting
with key stakeholders in their country. The lessons learnt will also be shared with Concern’s partner organisations.
To see video footage from the conference, click here
A woman suffering from HIV/AIDS waits to receive vaccine 'Pneumovax' during a vaccination programme organised by non-government organisation 'Sngobadho' (Together) at their office on the outskirts of the northeastern Indian city ...
