Voices of Youth

With the XIX AIDS Conference occurring this week in Washington DC we have reached a crucial moment at which action must be taken to defeat the HIV epidemic. Huge steps have been made in the right direction: the number of new infections fell from 560,000 to 330,000 from 2003 to 2011, but there is still a colossal amount of work to be done.

Young people are some of the most affected as 15-24 year olds account for 42% of all new HIV infections. Yet it is our generation that must provide the key to creating an AIDS free world, not only through technological improvements but also by defeating much of the stigma and shame that fuels the epidemic.

How do you believe we can overcome the prejudice surrounding HIV AIDS and create a more inclusive society? What action would you like to see governments and NGOs take? What role will you take? We need your help so that no-one is left behind! Please share your thoughts, questions and experiences with the Voices of Youth community.

Photo: Camera*Girl/Creative Commons