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Unions Unite Against HIV/AIDS

Issue date

demonstration. Photo Aditi Sharma, ACTSAHIV/AIDS is one of the most serious social and economic challenges of our time and trade unions are alarmed at the devastating effects of the disease on workers, their families and the community at large. At the ICFTU’s 17th World Congress in Durban, South Africa in 2000, the international trade union movement made a commitment to raise general awareness of the epidemic and to seek immediate, strong and effective action to control and eradicate this terrible disease.

Three priorities for action were identified: to adopt preventive measures; to mobilise against any form of discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS; and to campaign to make HIV/AIDS treatment affordable, particularly for those in developing countries.

demonstration. Photo Jonathan BradyThe spread of HIV/AIDS in developing countries has been exacerbated by poverty; structural adjustment programmes, which starve key sectors such as health and education of vital resources; and limited access to treatment. 95% of people living with HIV/AIDS are to be found in this part of the world. However, it would be wrong to see HIV/AIDS as a problem primarily for developing countries. It is a global problem, undermining economic progress and development and requiring an integrated, co-ordinated and sustained international response.

Trade unions play a key role in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The workplace is an important point of focus for initiatives to tackle the disastrous effects of the pandemic as it provides access to a large, yet captive audience. Consequently, the TUC, ICFTU and other trade union organisations are promoting the ILO’s Code of Practice on HIV/AIDS and the World of Work as a practical guide for formulating appropriate workplace policies, prevention and care programmes.

demonstration. Photo Treatment Action Campaign

Trade unions also form national and international networks which have been effective in promoting campaigns for social rights. These are being mobilised in the struggle against HIV/AIDS.

Take action now!

Send an email postcard to UK Secretary of State for International Development, Clare Short, with the TUC and Action for Southern Africa

Further information:

Action for Southern Africa on HIV/AIDS
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