HIV/AIDS was one of the thematic sections of the One World International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival, which took place in Prague 27 April to 5 May 2005.
Considering the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS problem and seeing it as an international crisis of staggering proportions the festival decided to put emphasis on the issue through showing several films on the topic. It also held the two day seminar for HIV/AIDS campaigners from EU countries, South Africa and Eastern Europe. The meeting was accompanied by a multimedia exhibition on AIDS.
While Sub-Saharan Africa is the hardest hit region in the world, a recent UN report shows that HIV is spreading the fastest in Central Asia and Eastern Europe. In these regions the number of people infected almost tripled from 1999 to 2002.
The worst affected countries are Russia, Estonia and the Ukraine. Of particular concern is the fact that the majority of those carrying the virus are between 15 and 40 years old, i.e. the bulk of the labour foce. One estimate is that 1.8 million people live with HIV/AIDS in these regions, equalling 0.9% of the population. This is a devastating figure, as research shows a 1% infection rate is a threshold, beyond which efforts to turn back the epidemic has failed in many countries.
During the HIV/AIDS seminar participants strongly supported the idea that stakeholders should consider as extremely important preventive efforts aiming Central Asia and Eastern Europe.
Participants in the seminar (which included APRAD, a recent EPHA member) shared a common vision concerning the strategic understanding and planning around HIV/AIDS and development. Through meeting with Alliance 2015 representatives, participants tried to pool expertise and share costs, thereby creating new synergies and strengths.
It was stressed that because of the multi-dimensional nature of HIV/AIDS this type of partnership is vital in order to tackle some of the most important factors fuelling the epidemic. Possible partnership may include sharing analysis, research and best practice on countries, programmes, projects, partners and advocacy, and to develop better quality standards.
The vision of the Alliance 2015 was presented through a "Triangle approach"
Leadership
Hold Governments accountable for their actions.
Work towards the UN target of 0.7 percent in ODA with a MDG focus.
Enhance community based responses.
Rights
Fight stigma and discrimination.
Support vulnerable groups in their fight for human rights.
Support rapid expansion of access to ARV.
Support the Education for All Fast Track Initiative.
Coherence
Promote better performance of donors and untying of aid.
Advocate for transparent division of labour and increased effectiveness.
Coherence in rich countries aid, debt and trade policies.
Promote people-based development planning.
