Back to basics: HIV/AIDS belongs with sexual and reproductive health
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Authors
Germain, Adrienne;Dixon-Mueller, Ruth; Sen, Gita
Issue Date
2009
Type
Journal / periodical articles
Language
Keywords
Policy and Practice;HIV/AIDS;Sexual and reproductive health
Alternative Title
Abstract
Description
The Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) held in Cairo in 1994 offers
a comprehensive framework for achieving sexual and reproductive health and rights, including the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS,
and for advancing other development goals. The United Nations Millennium Development Goals now incorporate a target of universal
access to sexual and reproductive health within the goal of improving maternal health, but combating HIV remains a separate project
with malaria and tuberculosis. We present a brief history of key decisions made by WHO, other United Nations’ agencies, the United
Nations Millennium Project and major donors that have led to the separation of HIV/AIDS from its logical programmatic base in sexual
and reproductive health and rights. This fragmentation does a disservice to the achievement of both sets of goals and objectives. In
urging a return to the original ICPD construct as a framework for action, we call for renewed leadership commitment, investment in health
systems to deliver comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, including HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, comprehensive
youth programmes, streamlined country strategies and donor support. All investments in research, policies and programmes should build
systematically on the natural synergies inherent in the ICPD model to maximize their effectiveness and efficiency and to strengthen the
capacity of health systems to deliver universally accessible sexual and reproductive health information and services.
Citation
Publisher
WHO