Held in Geneva I participated in the Communities Delegation preparation meeting as member of the delegation ahead of the 53rd global fund board meeting. The importance of meeting is significance after the pull out of US from major global entities they were funding. This brings the The Global Fund for HIV TB and Malaria programs across the globe under threat as US is one of the major funder with its commitment to match one dollar for each two dollar contribution from other donors.
Recently Asia Pacific Coalition of Men Having Sex with Men or APCOM had asked me for small interview on World AIDS Day 2024. Below is my discussion with them.
Brief bio of yourself
Ali Raza Khan is a young HIV positive gay activist from Pakistan working for the community since 2015, focused on SRHR, HIV, AIDS prevention and peace. He has worked with multiple local, national & international organizations for the rights of people living with HIV, Men having sex with men and gays. As founder Pride Pakistan he is currently working for men having sex with men gay and other queer community in Pakistan. He is serving as member Communities’ delegation to the board of the Global Fund, member UNAIDS Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 targets and co-lead partnership in The PACT. He is laureate HIV HERO Award 2021 by APCOM.
A quotation on the theme of this year’s WAD theme and what it means to you and your community
For me and my gay community, taking a right path is a path of decriminalizing men having sex with men and gay people in Pakistan. It is the only and one path that can help to eradicate new HIV infections and achieve UNAIDS 95 95 95 goal.
Please answer the following questions (try to stick to two paragraphs):
1 – What is the situation of people living with HIV in your country?
People living with HIV in Pakistan are facing enormous challenges due to slow progress towards reducing stigma and discrimination during treatment when visiting health care facilities. People from men having sex with men community and gay have to face it worse way as they have to get denial of treatments, discrimination from health care providers when accessing their HIV health care services. We hear on daily basis the special HIV clinics councilors rather than providing counseling on HIV treatment use derogatory remarks each time any HIV positive individual from MSM and gay community visit them. Due to denial of treatment to HIV community members I estimate hundreds of community members have died so far. Apart from this many other community members are unable to bear stigma and psychological torture from government health care facilities resulting in increase in lost to follow up.
It not only is coming from health care providers only but from work spaces, society and other day to day interactions. We are seeing even key population members held in prison being raped and killed. (1) It becomes more traumatizing for gay community and male sex workers that are unable to openly show their identities in public forums online due to torture and arrest from security agencies torturing gay people on online gay platforms and on ground.
On the other hand, there are increases in new HIV cases due to deteriorating health care system and pressure on healthcare facilities. Quack doctors also contributing into this along with societal practices. We see new and new outbreaks of HIV infections in general public. Such as a few days ago in Multan home town hospital dozens of kidney patients got HIV during negligence in dialysis treatment. (2)
The overall there is huge societal stigma and discrimination based on criminalizing laws all contributing towards increased cases of HIV infections in MSM and gay community. That is why I believe decriminalization of same sex and gay community is the only solution to curb the new HIV infections and achieve 95 95 95 targets.
2 – What and how are you/your organization doing to address these challenges?
We are working on empowering community by raising awareness around MSM & Gay community issues and providing capacity building trainings around their health and rights. We have been organizing focus groups discussions, safe space gathering and capacity building sessions benefiting thousands of people so far.
We are doing advocacy online and offline for the rights of men having sex with men and gay people. We are working with partners global to use diplomatic voice and influence to work around decriminalizing. It is important to bring the voice of gay community members on spotlight and in visibility that never gets highlighted despite the fact that MSM and gay people are one of the most vulnerable key populations.
3 – What support do you/your organization need?
With decreasing funding for community work and restrictions and crack down by authorities for organizations working for men having sex with men, gay and queer community it is becoming difficult for gay organizations to operate. Our organization is also struggling with sustainable funds for the running cost of our functions and salaries. Making most of our members working on volunteer basis. We need essential running cost to ensure uninterrupted work for our Pride Pakistan community.
4 – Anything else you wish to add?
I believe the work we are doing for capacity building and empowerment of men having sex with men and gay people is difficult with a lot of hurdles coming ahead on our way but we will continue to do so because that is the rights path. I wish one day other stakeholders and the government will also be able to take that rights path.
Read more on APCOM website Here:
Or on references Here:
1.
This discussion focuses on the use of financial data to monitor the effectiveness of community-led HIV response efforts, specifically in relation to the 30-18-60 targets. The conversation builds upon a previous discussion in March, where Deepak presented initial findings on using financing data for monitoring. This session delves deeper into the results, tracking methods, and potential avenues for using financial data as a proxy measure for the 30-18-60 targets.
Deepak begins by outlining the timeline of monitoring financial flows through community-led HIV response. He highlights key milestones, including:
Deepak then presents data on international funding channeled to communities, showing a decline from 31% in 2013 to 25% in 2023. He emphasizes the lack of data on domestic financing and the need for disaggregation by community-led organizations (CLOs) versus other civil society organizations (CSOs).
Deepak explains the three dimensions of the NASA framework:
He then presents data on the percentage of funding channeled through community-based and home-based service delivery modalities, highlighting a decline from 17% to 8% over the years. This data is based on 17 countries and should be interpreted with caution due to variations in reporting across regions and years.
Deepak discusses the six-country pilot project on community-led resource tracking, which aimed to:
The pilots helped shape guidelines for resource tracking and highlighted the need to consider both CLOs and other CSOs in the tracking process.
Deepak describes the implementation of a full NASA in Pakistan, which included:
The Pakistan NASA revealed that almost 80% of funding for community-led organizations came from international sources, with a small proportion from domestic financing. The data also showed that a significant portion of the funding was directed towards prevention services for key populations.
Deepak outlines the future direction of community-led resource tracking, including:
The discussion concludes with a focus on the importance of aligning resource tracking with costing guidelines for community-led response. Participants emphasize the need for both financial and non-financial data to advocate for increased funding and support for community-led service delivery. The group acknowledges the challenges of data collection, particularly for smaller organizations, and the need for capacity building in record-keeping.
Hello everyone, Ali Raza Khan here. As an HIV-positive gay activist and the founder of Pride Pakistan, I am dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals living with HIV. Today, I had the privilege of meeting with key members of the UNAIDS team, including Angeli Achrekar, Deputy Executive Director for the Programme, and Christine Stegling, Deputy Executive Director for Policy, Advocacy and Knowledge. Alongside other members of the Communities Delegation to the Board of the Global Fund, we engaged in an essential discussion about the upcoming Global Fund 52nd board meeting in Malawi’s capital next week.
The Dire Consequences of Reduced HIV Funding
Our discussion highlighted some alarming data from UNAIDS. A reduction in HIV funding could lead to 1.3 million deaths in 12 countries. This stark statistic underpins our grave concerns about the potential regression in our progress against the HIV epidemic. Despite significant advances, there are still 9.3 million people in need of treatment and 1.3 million new infections globally each year. The situation is particularly dire for key populations such as children, adolescent girls, young women, and other marginalized groups who continue to suffer the most.
Innovations in HIV Treatment and Prevention
We also discussed the importance of embracing new, game-changing innovations in the HIV response. One such innovation is the advent of long-acting injectables for HIV prevention. These new treatments could be as close as we’ve ever been to an effective HIV vaccine, with nearly 100% efficacy in reducing new infections. However, without adequate funding and support from the Global Fund, these innovations may not reach the populations that need them most.
The Broader Impact on Health Systems
Our conversation extended to the broader implications of diminished HIV funding. The HIV response has significantly strengthened health systems worldwide, from lab infrastructures to community health workers and supply chain systems. These systems, which have also been critical in responding to other health crises like Ebola, are at risk if HIV funding is cut. Integration of HIV services with TB and family planning initiatives has already shown positive outcomes, and continuing this integration is crucial.
The Critical Role of Community Systems
The Global Fund’s support for community systems and human rights protection is integral to ensuring these biomedical innovations reach those in need. A shift away from HIV funding could exacerbate inequalities and make addressing human rights and gender inequalities even more challenging. Communities play a vital role in the HIV response, and their involvement is essential for maintaining progress and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Our Commitment Moving Forward
The UNAIDS team reiterated their commitment to providing any data or support we need as we prepare for our board interventions. As part of the Communities Delegation, we will continue to fight for sustained HIV funding and advocate for the populations most at risk. We are at a critical juncture where the decisions made can significantly impact the future of the HIV response and the lives of millions.
This meeting reinforced the urgency of our mission. We must continue to advocate fiercely for the resources and support needed to combat HIV. I remain committed to this cause and will continue to work towards ensuring that every individual living with HIV has access to the treatment and care they deserve.
Stay tuned for more updates from the Global Fund 52nd board meeting and our ongoing efforts to secure a brighter future for all. 🌍❤️
The fight against HIV/AIDS has seen tremendous progress in recent years. However, achieving the ambitious goal of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030 requires innovative strategies and a focus on empowering the communities most affected by the virus. This is where the UNAIDS 30-60-80 targets come into play.
What are the UNAIDS 30-60-80 Targets?
The UNAIDS 30-60-80 targets are a set of ambitious goals outlined in the Global AIDS Strategy 2021-2026. These targets aim to dramatically increase the involvement of community-led organizations in delivering critical HIV-related services and programs. Here’s a breakdown of each target:
These ambitious targets are crucial for achieving several key goals in the fight against HIV/AIDS:
Empowerment: Community-led organizations are uniquely positioned to understand the specific needs and challenges faced by their communities. By increasing their role in delivering services, the targets empower these communities to take ownership of the HIV response.
Improved Access: Community-based organizations often have established trust and reach within their communities. This allows them to provide services in a more culturally appropriate and accessible way, leading to potentially higher utilization by individuals who might otherwise hesitate to access traditional healthcare settings.
Tailored Interventions: Community-led organizations have a deep understanding of local contexts and can design interventions that are more responsive to the specific needs of key populations and people living with HIV.
Challenges and the Path Forward
Reaching the 30-60-80 targets requires addressing some challenges. Currently, there’s a lack of robust tracking systems to monitor progress towards these goals. Additionally, sustainable funding for community-led organizations is critical to ensuring their long-term effectiveness. Despite these challenges, the UNAIDS 30-60-80 targets represent a bold and necessary step towards ending the AIDS epidemic. By increasing community ownership and leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS, these targets can help ensure that no one is left behind, and that critical services reach those who need them most.
Myself Ali Raza Khan is Committed to Accurate Information on HIV/AIDS :
On my site AliRazaKhan.com I believe in providing accurate and up-to-date information on HIV/AIDS for community and key population awarenss. I hope this article on the UNAIDS 30-60-80 targets sheds light on a crucial aspect of the global strategy towards ending the AIDS epidemic.
Read more about HIV in my blogs Here
As an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, my participation in the International AIDS Society (IAS) Regional Members’ Meeting is more than just a personal commitment. It represents the collective voice of marginalized communities striving for better healthcare and inclusivity. Being a proud member of the IAS since 2019, I have been actively engaged in its activities, ensuring that the concerns of people living with HIV, especially those from my region, are heard and addressed.
Scheduled to be held virtually on 31 October 2024, the IAS Regional Members’ Meeting will gather members from Asia and the Pacific Islands. With time slots tailored for different regions (13:00 in Mumbai, 14:30 in Bangkok, 16:30 in Tokyo, and 18:30 in Sydney), this meeting aims to foster inclusive dialogue and collaboration among IAS members.
The IAS provides a unique platform for professionals like myself to collaborate, learn, and advocate for change. Together, we can ensure that our collective efforts translate into meaningful progress for the HIV community worldwide.
By being an active participant in such discussions, I am not only representing my personal journey but also the aspirations of countless individuals facing similar challenges. Our united voice can make a difference in shaping a more inclusive and equitable healthcare landscape.
Read more on International Aids Society members website Here
I am excited to share that I, Ali Raza Khan, had the honor of participating in the World Food Forum 2024, hosted by the World Food Organisation (FAO) at their headquarters in Rome, Italy The event took place from October 14th to 18th, 2024, and featured a variety of sessions focused on youth engagement in food and agriculture.
One of the highlights of the forum was the Youth Assembly Opening Ceremony, session YM01, held on Monday, October 14th, 2024. This session brought together young leaders, activists, and experts from around the world to discuss the critical role of youth in addressing global food security challenges.
As a young HIV positive food expert and minorities rights activist from Pakistan, I participated in the session and the entire event virtually. My primary area of interest is Global Youth Action, and I was eager to share my experiences and insights on how to engage youth in the fight against food insecurity and climate change.
The session featured several inspiring speakers who emphasized the importance of youth involvement in creating sustainable solutions for food security. Their stories and perspectives were a powerful reminder of the impact that young people can have on shaping the future of our food systems.
Throughout the forum, I had the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations, exchange ideas, and learn about innovative approaches to tackling food security and climate resilience. It was a truly enriching experience, and I am grateful for the chance to be part of such a significant event.
I look forward to continuing my work in advocating for food security and climate resilience, especially for minorities in Pakistan and globally. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from my journey as I strive to make a difference in the world.
You can find more details about the event on FAO website: https://www.world-food-forum.org/docs/flagshipworldfoodforumlibraries/default-document-library/2024/wff-2024-overview-agenda.pdf
Ali Raza Khan, a renowned HIV positive gay activist, will be delivering an online awareness session as part of the HIVPoint.fi Health Buddy 2024 volunteer program. This crucial event is organized in collaboration with UnitedVision.fi and aims to educate and empower individuals about HIV.
Join the session on October 17, 2024, at 14:00 (EEST) via Google Meet. (https://meet.google.com/xzv-gdko-ynv) During the session, participants will learn essential facts about HIV transmission, prevention, testing, and the available treatments in Finland that can help stop the spread of the virus. This safe space for discussion will be led by Health Buddy Ali Raza Khan, who brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the cause.
Ali Raza Khan has been a tireless advocate for the rights of men having sex with men, gay people, sex workers, and other HIV key populations both in Pakistan and globally. His dedication to raising awareness and supporting affected communities has made a significant impact worldwide.
Don’t miss this opportunity to empower yourself with knowledge. Whether you’re looking to learn for yourself or to support others, this session is for everyone!
For more details and updates, visit AliRazaKhan.com blogs sesction and follow Ali Raza Khan’s social media by supporting his continued efforts in advocating for a healthier, more informed community.
More details on UnitedVision.fi social media pages below
In the dynamic sphere of global health and human rights, fostering inclusive and comprehensive approaches is paramount. During the last week of October 2024, I had the distinct honor of participating in an online consultation held on 2nd October 2024, orchestrated by the Love Alliance Partnership in collaboration with STOPAIDS, WACI Health, and the Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+). This initiative was a cornerstone in addressing pivotal issues related to community leadership and societal enablers, especially significant for individuals like myself—an HIV-positive gay person from Pakistan.
Overview of Consultation Process
The consultation, spanning from July to October 2024, comprised a series of meticulously organized meetings. These included an in-person meeting during the International AIDS Society Conference in Munich, Germany, and three online meetings. This collaborative effort was instrumental in creating a platform for linking and learning on global commitments, targets, and initiatives centered on health, rights, social accountability, and community leadership.
Core Themes Explored
The consultation series honed in on three core themes:
These themes were pivotal in highlighting the alignment between global targets and local policies and programs, with a key focus on the criminalization of communities impacted by HIV and LGBTIQ+ individuals.
Importance of Participation
My participation in this consultation was not just a personal milestone but a significant step towards amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. As an HIV-positive gay person from Pakistan, my experiences and insights brought a unique perspective to the discussions. Pakistan, like many other countries, grapples with persistent stigma and discrimination, particularly against LGBTIQ+ communities, people who use drugs, and sex workers. Such discrimination often leads to the exclusion of these communities from essential healthcare services, thereby exacerbating health inequities.
Fostering Change Through Advocacy
The insights garnered from this consultation series are set to shape a comprehensive white paper and advocacy roadmap. This roadmap aims to increase funding for community-led responses, expand civic space and freedoms, and progress towards decriminalization. It is crucial to address factors like criminalization, lack of funding, and exclusion in decision-making processes to foster an inclusive environment that upholds the rights and dignity of all individuals, irrespective of their HIV status or sexual orientation.
The consultation series epitomizes a collaborative effort to dismantle barriers and champion the rights of marginalized communities. My involvement in this process underscores the importance of inclusive dialogue and advocacy in driving meaningful change. By participating, I was able to contribute to a broader narrative that seeks to transform global health policies and ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against HIV and stigma.
Participating in such pivotal discussions is not just about sharing experiences but about paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Through continuous advocacy and collaboration, we can foster an environment where every individual, regardless of their background, can access the care and support they need.
Read the complete report from consulation Here
Further Readings
● Global AIDS Strategy:
https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/documents/2021/2021-2026-global-AIDS-strategy
● HIV PREVENTION 2025 ROAD MAP – Page 5:
https://www.unaids.org/sites/default/files/media_asset/prevention-2025-roadmap_en.pdf
●
https://www.undp.org/blog/human-rights-and-sdgs-two-sides-same-coin
● The Every Woman Every Child Strategy:
https://data.unicef.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/EWEC_globalstrategyreport_200915_FINAL_WEB.pdf
● 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS:
https://hivlanguagecompendium.org/high-level-precedent/2021-political-declaration-on-hiv-and-aids.html
● 2019 Political Declaration on UHC:
https://hivlanguagecompendium.org/high-level-precedent/2019-political-declaration-of-the-hlm-on-uhc.html
● STOPAIDS Statement Highlighting Contrasts Between the 2019 1 and 2023 2 UHC Political Declarations https://stopaids.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/HLM-2023-UHC-statement-.pdf
The Communities Delegation to the Board of the Global Fund recently convened to discuss the Lusaka Agenda, a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing the involvement and engagement of key populations in the fight against HIV, TB, and malaria. Among the passionate voices at this discussion was Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive activist from Pakistan. Ali’s contributions underscored the critical importance of including and empowering HIV key populations, particularly the gay and MSM (men who have sex with men) communities.
The Lusaka Agenda:
December 12, 2023 marked the launch of the Lusaka Agenda. It proposes an action plan for a shared, long-term vision of nationally-funded healthcare systems, as well as Universal Health Coverage (UHC) that leaves no one behind. To achieve these objectives, the Agenda proposes five major changes.
The Lusaka Agenda recommends five main changes:
2. To act as a catalyst for national and sustainable financing of health services and public health functions: this can reinforce sustainability and reduce dependence on external sources of funding.
3. Strengthen joint approaches to achieving equity of health outcomes: ensuring that health services are distributed equitably and reach marginalized populations.
4. Ensure strategic and operational coherence: streamlining efforts and resources to achieve common health objectives.
5. Coordinate approaches to products, research and development (R&D), and regional manufacturing to address market and policy failures related to global health: encouraging innovation and progress in healthcare delivery.
The Lusaka Agenda & the Global Fund:
Ali Raza Khan’s Participation:
Importance of Engaging Key Populations:
Issues and Challenges Discussed:
Ali’s Message:
Impact of the Discussion:
Munich, Germany – At the AIDS 2024 conference, Ali Raza Khan, founder of Pride Pakistan, delivered a compelling speech on the intersection of climate change and its effects on people living with HIV, gay men, and men who have sex with men (MSM). His presentation highlighted the severe impacts of climate change on these vulnerable communities, particularly in Pakistan.
In 2024, more than 100 people have died due to flood-related atrocities in Pakistan. Ali Raza Khan, hailing from South Punjab, one of the most affected regions, shared his personal experiences and the struggles faced by his community. He emphasized that the gay community members in Pakistan are significantly impacted by the changing climate, including extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and increased water pollution.
Khan presented data from studies conducted by Pride Pakistan, available on their website PridePakistan.org. He focused on the flood aspects, revealing that in the past five years, 100% of the community members surveyed reported being affected by flooding or heavy rainfall. This statistic underscores the pervasive nature of climate-related challenges in the region.
When asked about their concerns regarding climate change, 82% of the community members expressed that they believe climate change has a significant impact on their lives. Only 17% did not consider it a priority. Furthermore, 100% of the respondents acknowledged that climate change poses a threat to their health and well-being.
Khan also highlighted other pressing issues in Pakistan, such as terrorist activities and conflicts in regions like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), which cover more than 70% of Pakistan’s geographical area. These areas have limited healthcare services, exacerbating the struggles faced by the communities. For instance, in Balochistan, only one community-based organization serves a vast area, and access to services is further hindered by floods and security issues.
Despite these challenges, the community continues to show resilience. In Pakistan, where gay men and MSM are criminalized, community services and healthcare remain crucial. Young people are actively engaged in mitigation measures, such as plantation projects, to counter the impacts of climate change. The community is also collaborating with stakeholders to ensure inclusive efforts for those living with HIV, gay men, and MSM.
Khan concluded his speech by emphasizing the need for continued adaptation to the changing climate. He called for greater support and collaboration to address the multifaceted challenges faced by these vulnerable communities.
Ali Raza Khan’s speech at the AIDS 2024 conference serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. His insights highlight the resilience and determination of these communities in the face of adversity. For more detailed information and studies, visit AliRazaKhan.com and PridePakistan.org.
Link to program details on International Aids Society: https://programme.aids2024.org/Programme/Session/15
Link to Recordings on International Aids Society Page:
https://plus.iasociety.org/webcasts/resilience-rising-understanding-impact-emergencies-communities
AUTHOR
Lucy Wanjiku Njenga
SUMMARY
Civil society has always been at the center of emergencies ensuring that their communities are able to overcome the challenges and impacts that are left behind when emergencies happen. The communities pull their resources together to address these issues and this is not an event rather a process.
HIGHLIGHTS
Whether it is floods in Pakistan, violence, unrest and natural calamities in Haiti, immigrants and refugees in Europe, UK, Columbia and Peru; the communities of people most affected come together to address the challenges head on. “Governments come and go but civil society is always there to work with communities,” shared Mary Ann Torres of ICASO who took the participants through Venezuela advocacy for Global Fund grant. As a country that did not fit what was required to get funded by the Global Fund, the civil society members organised and advocated relentlessly sharing their true lived realities and this saw the country become a recipient of the fund. “The location might be different but the experiences the same. If organisations and communities can share with each other, to learn from each other instead of reinventing the wheel, a lot can be achieved.” Shared Judy Otti of the African Advocacy Foundation. “It is important to understand emergencies last longer and have lasting impact…More resources are needed to ensure that the communities are not left on their own to figure it out.” said Mary Ann Torres
CRITICAL ASSESSMENT
Time and time again, civil society picks up the pieces of what is left of their communities after an emergency. When the rest of the world moves on to focus on the country and the next issue, they are the ones who have to figure out how to function in the new normal. For this to be possible and continue, there is need to invest continuously in these efforts.
Artists and scientists have worked together to create pieces of art now on display in Munich, Germany in conjunction with the International AIDS Conference. The exhibition, titled HIV Science As Art, was conceived by co-curators Jessica Whitbread and Daniel Cordner. It follows in the footsteps of their 2023 show that was on display a year ago during the IAS Conference on HIV Science in Brisbane Australia.
The art will be for sale and all proceeds will be used to support community-based HIV programs in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Africa. But the impact of the show extends beyond raising money for worthwhile organizations. The exhibition also challenges viewers to think more deeply about important biomedical and social issues.
One artist/scientist pair worked together to create a piece on vaccine hesitancy. Charles Ryan Long is a Chicago-based artist and long-time HIV/AIDS activist. He partnered with Dr. Heidi Larson, a professor at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and founder of the Vaccine Confidence Project. Their piece is entitled, “The Roots of (dis)Trust.”
Khairullah Rahim, an artist based in Singapore, collaborated with Ali Raza Khan, an HIV activist in Pakistan. Their piece, “Penjaga Hutan Batu (Guardian of the Stone Jungle),” is a short video ostensibly about pigeons. But Khairullah noted that the pigeons represent so much more. These birds often are vilified as carriers of disease. Too often, he remarked, people living with HIV are similarly vilified.
Both artists remarked that the collaborations with their science partners grew very organically. Long commented that when he was speaking with Dr. Larson about her work on vaccine hesitancy, the idea came quickly. “This is about trust,” he said. “It came to me rather easily and then it was just about how to transfer that idea.”
Rahim had similar thoughts about his collaboration. The process, “was very spontaneous. We wanted to see where the experimentation would bring us. There was no very clear end product that we were interested in.”
The exhibition has been supported by the pharmaceutical company ViiV Healthcare and Münchner Aids-Hilfe, an organization supporting people living with HIV in the Munich region since 1984. Works of art are on display at Brainlab, Olof-Palme-Straß 9 in Munich through July 25, 2024. The exhibition is open to the public daily from 10:00 AM until 7:00 PM local time.
Read more on original article on Forbes website here
Muenchner Aidshilfe Instagram page here
https://www.instagram.com/p/C9Ry0raAQA6
On ViiV Healthcare Social Media Here
https://www.instagram.com/p/C91qsY4MtBF
Munich, Germany – The AIDS 2024 conference will feature a pivotal session titled “From Ruin to Resilience: Harnessing Community Strength in the Face of Natural Disasters,” highlighting the critical intersection of climate change and public health. This scientific symposium, accredited for Continuing Medical Education (CME), will take place on July 25, 2024, from 15:00 to 16:00 local time in Room 13a for in-person participation and on Channel 6 for virtual attendees.
One of the key speakers for this session is Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist from Multan, Pakistan. Khan is the founder of PridePakistan.org and co-lead of TheYouthPACT.org. His work focuses on advocating for the rights and health of marginalized communities, particularly those affected by HIV and climate change.
Moderated by Mary Ann Torres from ICASO, the session will delve into the dire impacts of emergencies caused by pandemics, war, the climate crisis, and other catastrophic events on vulnerable and marginalized communities. The discussion will cover a range of critical issues, including:
Ali Raza Khan will share insights from his extensive work in Pakistan, where he has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of climate change on communities living with HIV. His presentation will focus on the resilience and strength of these communities in the face of natural disasters. Khan will highlight the innovative strategies employed by community organizations to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as plantation projects and collaborations with stakeholders to ensure inclusive efforts for those living with HIV.
The session will also feature contributions from:
These speakers will provide a global perspective on the challenges and solutions related to the health of vulnerable communities during emergencies.
Ali Raza Khan’s participation in this session underscores the importance of community-led initiatives and the need for global solidarity in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by natural disasters and other crises. His work with Pride Pakistan and The Youth PACT exemplifies the power of resilience and the critical role of advocacy in safeguarding the health and rights of marginalized populations.
Link to program details on International Aids Society: https://programme.aids2024.org/Programme/Session/15
The importance of mental health in global health, particularly during a pandemic, cannot be overstated. Mental health plays a critical role in overall well-being and is intricately connected to physical health, social functioning, and the ability to cope with challenges and adversity. Here are some key reasons why mental health should be prioritized in global health, especially in the context of a pandemic:
Psychological impact of the pandemic: The pandemic has led to increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders due to factors such as fear of infection, social isolation, loss of loved ones, financial strain, and disruptions in daily life. Addressing mental health is essential to mitigate these psychological impacts.
Impact on physical health: Mental health conditions can have significant effects on physical health. Conditions like anxiety and depression can increase the risk of chronic diseases, weaken the immune system, and hinder individuals from seeking necessary healthcare services, leading to poorer health outcomes.
Social and economic consequences: Mental health issues can exacerbate social inequalities and have long-term economic consequences. Poor mental health can affect educational attainment, employment prospects, and productivity, thereby impacting socioeconomic development and widening existing health disparities.
Strengthening healthcare systems: Integrating mental health services into primary healthcare systems strengthens overall healthcare delivery. It enables early detection and treatment of mental health disorders, reduces the burden on specialized mental health facilities, and promotes a comprehensive approach to health and well-being.
Human rights perspective: Recognizing and addressing mental health as a fundamental human right is crucial. This includes ensuring access to mental health services, combating stigma and discrimination, and promoting the inclusion and participation of individuals with mental health conditions in society.
Resilience and recovery: Prioritizing mental health during a pandemic fosters resilience and aids in the recovery process. By providing psychosocial support, promoting self-care strategies, and enhancing coping mechanisms, individuals and communities can better adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic.
To achieve global health goals, it is essential to integrate mental health into policies, healthcare systems, and public health strategies. This involves increasing investment in mental health services, training healthcare professionals in mental health care, raising awareness, and destigmatizing mental health conditions. By addressing mental health as a core component of global health, we can create a healthier and more resilient world, both during and beyond the pandemic.
Read it on my Medium blogging account Here
Hey there! 🌟 I wanted to share some exciting and important news with you all. In May 2023, I was invited to join the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a member of this incredible team. As an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, I know firsthand the challenges and stigma that come with living with HIV. This opportunity has been a powerful way for me to advocate for our community on a global stage.
Why My Representation Matters:
The 30-80-60 Targets are part of the 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS. These targets aim to prevent millions of new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths by 2030. They specifically call for community-led organizations to deliver:
2. 80% of HIV prevention services for high-risk populations.
3. 60% of programs to support societal enablers, reducing stigma, punitive laws, and gender-based violence.
Community-led organizations, like the ones I work with, play a critical role in achieving these targets. Our unique experiences, perspectives, and voices are essential in shaping effective strategies. We’re self-determined and autonomous, free from external influences, which allows us to truly represent and be accountable to our communities.
My Role and Contributions:
During our first meeting on May 10th, 2023, we discussed the development of a robust monitoring framework for these targets. We explored existing data collection and reporting mechanisms and identified opportunities to strengthen them. This is crucial because there’s currently no standardized system to track progress towards these targets.
Serving on this advisory group has been a humbling and empowering experience. It’s a reminder that our voices matter and that we can drive meaningful change. By representing young HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers from Pakistan and the EMRO region, I’m committed to ensuring our needs and challenges are addressed.
As we move forward, our collaborative efforts will be instrumental in shaping a monitoring framework that drives positive change in the global fight against HIV. Together, we can make a difference and create a world where everyone has access to the care, support, and dignity they deserve.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more updates! 🌍❤️
Read more about 2025 targets and 30-80-60 targets on UNAIDS site Here: https://crossroads.unaids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GAU-2024-Annex-1-En.pdf
On May 10th, 2023, the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets convened for their first meeting. This group, composed of global stakeholders dedicated to advancing the fight against HIV, gathered to discuss the development of a monitoring framework for the ambitious 30-80-60 targets set in the 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS. The meeting brought together diverse voices, including Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, who represents young HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers from the EMRO region. The meeting began with opening remarks from key UNAIDS representatives, highlighting the importance of the 30-80-60 targets. The targets aim to prevent 3.6 million new HIV infections and 1.7 million AIDS-related deaths by 2030 through community-led efforts.
Overview of the 30-80-60 Targets:
2. 80 per cent of HIV prevention services for populations at high risk of infection, including women within those populations.
3. 60 per cent of programs supporting societal enablers to reduce stigma, discrimination, punitive laws, and gender-based violence.
The advisory group discussed the need for a robust monitoring framework to track progress towards the 30-80-60 targets. Existing data collection and reporting mechanisms used by community-led organizations were explored. Ideas to strengthen and build on these mechanisms to inform national and global monitoring were shared. The group expressed the need for more discussion and engagement to ensure everyone is on the same page. Participants were encouraged to provide feedback and suggest amendments to the proposed process for developing the monitoring framework. The importance of agreeing on principles and critical success factors to ensure the framework’s effectiveness was highlighted.
Conclusion: The first meeting of the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets set a strong foundation for future efforts. The diverse perspectives and insights shared by members, including Ali Raza Khan, emphasized the importance of inclusive and community-led approaches to achieve the ambitious 2025 targets. As the group moves forward, their collaborative efforts will be instrumental in shaping a monitoring framework that drives meaningful change in the global fight against HIV. 🌍❤️
Read more about 2025 targets and 30-80-60 targets on UNAIDS site Here: https://crossroads.unaids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GAU-2024-Annex-1-En.pdf
Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, has been invited to join the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets. This esteemed group comprises global stakeholders dedicated to advancing the fight against HIV. Ali’s involvement marks a significant step towards ensuring the voices of young HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers from Pakistan and the EMRO region are heard and represented in global HIV initiatives.
Background on the 30-80-60 Targets:
The 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS, adopted by United Nations Member States, set forth ambitious targets to be achieved by 2025. The goals are to prevent 3.6 million new HIV infections and 1.7 million AIDS-related deaths by 2030. Three specific targets emphasize the role of community-led organizations in delivering HIV-related services:
2. 80 per cent of HIV prevention services for populations at high risk of infection, including women within those populations.
3. 60 per cent of programs supporting societal enablers to reduce stigma, discrimination, punitive laws, and gender-based violence.
Community-led organizations are pivotal in the HIV response, reflecting the experiences, perspectives, and voices of their constituencies. These organizations operate independently of government, commercial, or donor influences, ensuring they are truly representative and accountable to their communities.
Ali Raza Khan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the advisory group.
As the founder of Pride Pakistan and an advocate for HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers, Ali’s insights are invaluable. His participation underscores the importance of including marginalized voices in global health strategies. The advisory group aims to develop a robust monitoring framework for the 30-80-60 targets. This involves exploring existing data collection and reporting mechanisms used by community-led organizations and identifying opportunities to strengthen them. Ali’s involvement will ensure that the unique challenges and needs of key populations are considered in the framework. Ali’s membership in the advisory group highlights the recognition of the crucial role that young HIV-positive gay activists play in the global HIV response. His advocacy efforts will contribute to the development of effective strategies to achieve the 30-80-60 targets and improve the lives of those affected by HIV. Ali Raza Khan’s inclusion in the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets is a testament to his dedication and leadership in the fight against HIV. His unique perspective and experience will be instrumental in shaping the future of HIV prevention, treatment, and support services. 🌍❤️
Read more about 2025 targets and 30-80-60 targets on UNAIDS site Here: https://crossroads.unaids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GAU-2024-Annex-1-En.pdf
Tuesday, 25th January 2022
The Communities Delegation of people living with and affected by HIV, TB and malaria (Communities Delegation) to the Global Fund Board has the pleasure to announce the appointment of Mr Javier Hourcade as the Board Member and Mr Ali Raza Khan as the Alternate Board Member. The constituency confirmed and welcomed the new leadership during its online retreat in December 2021. Javier and Ali will serve a two-year term until January 2024.
Mr Ali Raza Khan is a young PLHIV activist from Multan, Pakistan, working for his community since 2015, focused on HIV prevention, SRHR and peace. Over the past few years, he has worked with numerous local, national & international organisations for the rights of young PLHIVs and KPs. He is currently leading an initiative in Pakistan focusing on young vulnerable key populations and PLHIVs. Ali is a laureate of the HIV HERO Award 2021 by APCOM for his effort and work around HIV and PLHIVs. A new member from the Communities Delegation, at only 29 years old, Ali is the delegation’s first youth member to serve in the leadership and has consistently shown a keen interest to learn and an immense commitment to amplifying the voices of communities at the Global Fund Board.
We want to take the opportunity to express our deepest gratitude and admiration for our outgoing Board Member Erika Castellanos. Erika joined the Communities Delegation in 2015 and has since demonstrated an aptitude and appetite to transform and strengthen the representation of communities at the Board level. Natural from Belize, in Central America, Erika served as Alternate Board Member from 2018 to 2020. In December 2020, she became the first transgender woman to ever serve as a Board Member of the Global Fund. Erika’s integrity and unapologetic and skilful leadership have led the delegation through decisive moments. More recently, it has guaranteed that our constituency had a prominent role in shaping the next Strategy.
We thank Erika immensely for the legacy she leaves as a role model of governance official, and we are delighted to retain her as a member of the delegation’s Advisory Working Group (AWG). Erika continued the outstanding leadership from Ms Maurine Murenga, former Communities Delegation Board Member, from 2018 to 2020, and current member of the AWG as well, whom we want to acknowledge for her equally solid and continued commitment to the Communities Delegation.
We also thank Olivia Ngou, our outgoing Alternate Board Member, for her efforts and time dedicated to the delegation. A long-time malaria champion, Olivia added the voices of malaria activists to our discussions, ensuring that their priorities were also well captured in our positions. Born in Cameroon, she focused on connecting the delegation with francophone communities and strengthening our relationship with francophone partners. As a member of the AWG and co-lead of our Strategy Committee working group, we also thank her for her diligence and support with internal affairs and many valuable contributions throughout the new Strategy development process.
The Communities Delegation is looking ahead to a pivotal year in the Global Fund’s new Strategy development process and we look forward to engaging with you in 2022.
About the Communities Delegation:
The Communities Delegation of people living with and affected by HIV, TB and malaria (Communities Delegation) is one of three civil society constituencies on the Global Fund Board. It has a unique role in leveraging the lived experiences of HIV, TB and Malaria and bringing a human face to the realities of the three diseases. The Communities Delegation is committed to ensuring human rights and gender equality in programmes, with particular attention to key and vulnerable, marginalised, criminalised and stigmatised populations. The delegation engages with its communities and influences decisions with the ultimate aim of ensuring the best equitable and sustainable access to prevention, treatment, care and support services for the three diseases.
Read the article on global network of people living with HIV GNP Plus website : https://gnpplus.net/latest/news/communities-delegation-to-the-global-fund-board-appoints-new-board-member-and-alternate-board-member/
Read more on Communities Delegation website:
Supported by APCOM Community Partner – APN+
My name is Ali Raza Khan and I’m a 28-year-old PLHIV activist working for my community. I live in Multan, a small but culturally rich town of Pakistan also known as the City of Saints. I come from a poor family living in the red-light area of the town that led me to adopt risky behaviors without protection. I grew up facing stigma and discrimination because of my identity, status and being from a minority group. Because of my status and identity, I faced bad times when trying to access health services or for exercising my rights. Facing and dealing with these bad times encouraged me to work for my community that is still suffering around Pakistan. I always look for opportunities to learn, catch positive skills and knowledge from other expert people, or try to learn new things on my own. I’m doing all this to empower other PLHIVs so that that they can also raise voices for their health and rights collectively.
I started working for HIV awareness and prevention in 2015 from my university days as volunteer of HYPE national youth group of Rutgers in Pakistan. I continued my volunteer work for the community along with different organizations including FDI, Aahung, ACT, ISYD, YAN, KSS and APLHIV. I started my full-time job for PLHIV withTrans Welfare Organization, a CBO working for HIV among the TG community. TWOCBO provided me the opportunity to speak about the PLHIV community. Later, I joined Wasaib Sanwaro, a CBO working for MSM and amplified my efforts by representing PLHIVs at international platforms. I started my own initiative “Hi Voices” due to the lack of any dedicated platform for the empowerment of YPLHIVs and because many PLHIVs lack the required skills and knowledge to raise their voices. Currently, at national level, I’m organizing capacity building training for YPLHIVs under the Young Positive People of Pakistan Program. Apart from these efforts I’m empowering PLHIVs at the regional and global level with The PACT and YPEER. I’m also trying to influence stakeholders and policy making via Youth LEAD and as a member of Communities Delegation to the board of The Global Fund.
I’m proud of training other PLHIVs who wanted to raise their voices. One of our alumni participated in our capacity building training and was volunteering in our campaigns all the time. He contacted me and said he learned a lot from my organization and is going to start a platform related to PLHIVs issues. It was the moment when I felt that I may be succeeding in my mission to empower other PLHIVs. I am proud of him and his work because I dedicated my time to PLHIVs with the only one objective of empowering them.
Working for PLHIVs in a conservative humanitarian setting of Pakistan was most challenging. It is still challenging because a PLHIV activist must face multiple obstructions every day. One does not only struggle with the issues that he or she is working for, but also struggles with society, norms, policies and opposition that stops others from accessing and practicing their basic health and rights. These things make my efforts and work more challenging in a conservative humanitarian setting of Pakistan.
I connect with people from the PLHIV community and spend time with them. I share and talk with people who are working for a similar cause. I get re-energized when I work for the PLHIV community in a way that saves their life. I listen to the stories of people how they were able to bring some positive change in the lives of PLHIVs. I try to make them happy and smile. A smile and happiness on their faces brings smile on my face too.
I sometimes indulge into things related to the PLHIV community and I forget to make sufficient time available for myself and my family. I try to overcome this be ensuring specific days and specific times dedicated to my family and community work. Also scheduling my work helps me overcome this issue.
I felt happy to be nominated for the HIV HERO award. I see this as an appreciation and encouragement to continue my work for the community, irrespective of how harsh the conditions on the ground are. I felt excited about this award because there are very few people and platforms to support and appreciate the work of PLHIVs as HERO Award is doing.
We learned a lot from the COVID-19 crisis, including supporting each other and the marginalized communities. Together we learned how to fight these pandemics and find the cure and access to treatment for all, irrespective of power gaps. My message to all the communities in Asia and the Pacific is to work collectively to end discrimination associated with people affected by diseases.
Read more on Asia Pacific Coalition of Men Having Sex with Men APCOM
Facebook Page Here
Website Here
In a heartfelt testimony during a UN high-level meeting debrief for young people living with HIV and young key populations, Eamonn Murphy, UNAIDS Director for Regional Support Teams for Asia Pacific and Eastern Europe and Central Asia regions, extended his appreciation for Ali Raza Khan’s remarkable activism.
Ali Raza Khan, a HIV positive gay activist, has dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of men having sex with men, gay people, sex workers, and other HIV key populations in Pakistan and globally. His tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning him the respect and admiration of leaders and organizations worldwide.
“People like Ali Raza Khan who made statements in this global momentum that started at country and built up by putting his statements and voices out there so it’s really important,” Murphy remarked. These words encapsulate the essence of Khan’s contribution to the global fight against HIV and the broader struggle for human rights.
Ali Raza Khan’s activism is not just about raising awareness; it’s about creating a platform for the voiceless and ensuring that the challenges faced by HIV key populations are brought to the forefront of global discussions. His work highlights the intersection of health, human rights, and social justice, making him a pivotal figure in the movement.
Through his own initiatives and support of Youth LEAD Asia Pacific YKP network, YPlus Global, and collaborations with the UNAIDS office, Khan continues to push for systemic change and equitable treatment for marginalized communities. His unwavering commitment and impactful actions inspire many to join the fight for a world where every individual, regardless of their HIV status or social identity, can live with dignity and respect.
This testimony by Eamonn Murphy stands as a testament to Ali Raza Khan’s extraordinary work and the vital role he plays in the ongoing struggle for HIV awareness and rights advocacy. His journey is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make in the face of adversity, and his voice remains a beacon of hope and resilience for many.
Watch the whole sesssion online Youth Lead Asia Pacific YKP facebook page or UNAIDS youtube channel below
