1° DECEMBER: WORLD AIDS DAY 2010. Aids is Killing Artists and now Homophobia is Killing Art. The theme for World AIDS Day 2010 is "Universal Access and Human Rights". Global leaders have pledged to work towards universal access to HIV and AIDS treatment, prevention and care, recognising these as fundamental human rights. Valuable progress has been made in increasing access to HIV and AIDS services, yet greater commitment is needed around the world if the goal of universal access is to be achieved. Millions of people continue to be infected with HIV every year. In low- and middle-income countries, less than half of those in need of antiretroviral therapy are receiving it, and too many do not have access to adequate care services.2 The protection of human rights is fundamental to combating the global HIV and AIDS epidemic. Violations against human rights fuel the spread of HIV, putting marginalised groups, such as injecting drug users and sex workers, at a higher risk of HIV infection. By promoting individual human rights, new infections can be prevented and people who have HIV can live free from discrimination. World AIDS Day provides an opportunity for all of us – individuals, communities and political leaders – to take action and ensure that human rights are protected and global targets for HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care are met.
Universal Access and Human Rights:
Understanding HIV and AIDS from a human rights perspective can be difficult. Human rights are often misunderstood – and can sometimes be seen as abstract ideals – with not much practical relevance for real people.
With "Universal Access and Human Rights" being the theme of this year's World AIDS Day, the key slogans are:
- I am accepted.
- I am safe.
- I am getting treatment.
- I am well.
- I am living my rights.
- Everyone deserves to live their rights.
- Right to Live.
- Right to Health.
- Access for all to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support is a critical part of human rights.
The concept of a World AIDS Day originated at the 1988 World Summit of Ministers of Health on Programmes for AIDS Prevention. Since then, every year UN agencies, governments and all sectors of civil society worldwide join together to campaign around specific themes related to AIDS.
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