- Author
- Lewis, Miranda
- Title
- Gendering AIDS: Women, men, empowerment, mobilisation
- Imprint
- VSO - Voluntary Service Overseas (UK), London, October 2003, 53 pp
- Url
- http://www.vso.org.uk/Images/gendering_aids_tcm8-809.pdf
- Abstract
"HIV and AIDS continues to afflict communities in developing countries, despite increased international attention and funding and the efforts of people working on the ground. Many women’s groups, nongovernmental organisations (NGOs), academics and activists have demonstrated that inequalities between women and men fuel the spread of HIV and AIDS. To reverse the spread and minimise the impact of HIV and AIDS, inequalities between women and men must be reduced. This is not happening yet, partly because policies designed to uphold women’s rights are not being implemented effectively. By failing to place gender concerns at the heart of the response to HIV and AIDS, some interventions may actually be exacerbating the impact of HIV and AIDS on women. Another vital component in an effective response to HIV and AIDS that has been frequently overlooked is the constructive involvement of men in addressing gender inequalities and in meeting the specific needs of women, men and children affected by the epidemic. The research draws on the hands-on experience of a range of stakeholders, including VSO partner organisations, groups of people living with HIV and
AIDS, and women’s and men’s organisations. This position paper draws together priorities expressed by these stakeholders, along with VSO’s analysis. The recommendations for action aim to strengthen the response of government agencies, donors, civil society organisations, practitioners and NGOs (including VSO)"