| Regional
Response
Dialogue and advocacy efforts related to HIV/AIDS build on
positive cultural values and norms to find ways of including people from all
backgrounds in life-saving efforts to prevent HIV infection. Such dialogue
is often initiated with faith-based organizations and leaders, encouraging
discussion that extends beyond the borders of countries to regions and religions.
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Working with the Islamic Foundation under the Ministry of Religious Affairs
in Bangladesh, UNFPA has helped integrate reproductive
health into the curriculum of ongoing training programmes for imams. Thus
far 9,000 imams and 34 female religious leaders have participated in training
on gender, HIV/AIDS prevention and other reproductive health issues. Religious
leaders are now aware of the potential devastation the epidemic could bring
to Bangladesh and, while still hesitant in addressing sexual issues and
condom use, they have stated a willingness to take on responsibility and
be more active in prevention efforts. Also in 2002, information about HIV/AIDS
and sexually transmitted infections was incorporated into training manuals
for 10 government ministries.
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Islamic schools in Kyrgyzstan tested a "healthy
lifestyle curriculum" with positive response from religious leaders
and representatives of government and women’s groups. Television
channels broadcast health messages free of charge. The recently passed
Law of the Kyrgyz Republic on Reproductive Rights is the first of its kind
in countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States.
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Religious and faith-based organizations in Ghana are
working with the Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana and UNFPA to reach
both Christian and Muslim youth with information and services to prevent
unwanted pregnancy and the spread of HIV/AIDS. Traditional leaders are
also helping expand the project’s scope into the wider community.
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