14th International AIDS Conference Barcelona, Spain - July 7-12, 2002

Int Conf AIDS 2002 Jul 7-12; 14:(abstract no. F11753)

Martin CO, Newberger JD, Abdul-Quader AS, Duncan TW, Cortez C
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, United States

ISSUES: Mutual learning can have significant benefits for both the international and United States domestic response to HIV/AIDS. Many non-governmental organizations and AIDS service organizations (NGOs/ASOs) in the U.S. and abroad share similar issues and barriers in providing effective prevention and support for people living with HIV/AIDS.

DESCRIPTION: Four U.S.-based organizations were funded and paired with international partner agencies. Three international agencies were located in Central America; one in South Africa; and one in Haiti. Each participating agency undertook activities such as: operations research; network development; institutional development; and educational materials development.

ISSUES: -Linkages can be and are effective means of creating stronger HIV prevention systems and networks, both internationally and domestically. For example, cyber cafes have been developed in Central America to provide the community with access to information and to connect with others, both on-line and in the cafe. -Partnerships can produce an increase in access to materials and other local NGOs/CBOs. Resource libraries have been established, and in both South Africa and Haiti expansive local NGO networks have been developed as a result of the increased visibility and capacity of the international partner agency.

RECOMMENDATIONS: It is important to ensure that parity exists between partners and that the expectations and roles of each partner are well understood and agreed upon from the beginning through clear and open communication. Linkages can be a means to generate support and build capacity in such areas as cultural sensitivity and awareness, working with local partners to reach larger communities, and developing culturally appropriate materials for specific populations.

020707
F11753

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