Protecting Young People from HIV and AIDS - The Role of Health Services

In March 2003, researchers and practitioners from across the world met in Montreux, Switzerland, with representatives of UN agencies. Their task was to review the evidence for priority health service interventions that would help countries better protect young people against HIV and AIDS, in line with their global goals. They reviewed innovative experiences from countries that are setting the agenda for fighting HIV and AIDS in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Europe. A number of approaches emerged to protect young people within a variety of circumstances in different countries. This document summarizes the evidence for effective action, and encourages policy makers and programmers to turn concern and commitment into effective and sustainable action. It is based on an understanding that HIV infects people when they are young, but AIDS affects and kills people at an age when they would be parents and workers who sustain society and domestic and family life. Helping young people to protect themselves against HIV and AIDS protects people now and in the future. It protects the future of family life and the economic prospects of countries in development.