New website will serve as a space for experts to network and a clearinghouse of information on HIV-related stigma and discrimination.
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A new website that launched May 11 will serve as a clearinghouse of information for a global alliance of practitioners, researchers, advocates, people living with HIV and donors who work in the area of HIV-related stigma and discrimination. The site also will provide networking opportunities through a discussion forum and blog.
This alliance, called the Stigma Action Network (SAN), was launched at the 2010 International AIDS Conference in Vienna. A coordinating body, SAN aims to develop and expand programs, research and advocacy strategies for reducing HIV-related stigma and discrimination worldwide. The network’s website provides a “one-stop shop” for HIV-related stigma and discrimination experts who want to learn about research findings, advocacy efforts, technical resources and new initiatives to reduce stigma.
Stigma and discrimination continue to undermine prevention, treatment and care for people living with HIV. Being stigmatized also increases people’s vulnerability to violence, gender inequity and poverty as well as threatens their access to much needed health care. Experts say that having a central location such as the SAN website to obtain information related to stigma and discrimination is critical to advancing the field and coordinating efforts.
A steering committee provides overall direction to SAN, and is comprised of the following organizations: Colectivo Sol, EngenderHealth, Futures Group, International HIV/AIDS Alliance Africa Regional Programme and The Communication Hub. The International Center for Research on Women (ICRW) serves as the network’s technical secretariat, and will manage SAN’s daily functions for the next three years.
SAN is currently supported by the M.A.C. AIDS Fund.
Gillian Gaynair is ICRW’s writer/editor.