Why bother? Global health and AIDS: fighting for justice and equity

33 million people are living with HIV, close to 9 million children die every year, and hundreds of thousands of women die of pregnancy-related complications. This report drawn from seminar-discussions argues that while we have made some progress, we need to redouble our efforts to increase health equity, alleviate suffering, and promote healthy people and communities.

The document presents the following conclusions:

• Global health, AIDS and development challenges need to be addressed together.
• National and multi-national partnerships are needed to provide accessible, friendly services and support for all who need it.
• Efforts need to be institutionally and financially sustainable through setting priorities and designing appropriate strategies.
• Funds should be spent where they are most needed and on interventions that work.
• There is a need to rethink health service provision in light of the lessons learnt from addressing HIV and AIDS, as well as providing primary health care.

The paper includes a number of recommendations to aim for:

• Reduced prices on medication, available to all.
• Rduce all kinds of prejudice holding back the fight against the HIV pandemic, such as anti-gay sentiments.
• Invest in health services, research, and in mechanisms for research utilisation.
• Link AIDS services to general health services.
• Bring young people on board to bring energy and new ideas.
• Build open dialogue with religious leaders at all levels to ensure that good values underpin their messages.