The EU Commission has renewed its efforts to fight HIV and AIDS in the EU and neighbouring countries by adopting A strategy for combating HIV/AIDS in the EU and neighbouring countries 2009-2013. 1

Deborah Jack, Chief Executive of NAT, comments;

“We welcome this new EU strategy for tackling HIV over the next five years.  The strategy has a clear focus on the groups most affected and most at risk of HIV in the region; namely men who have sex with men, injecting drug users and migrants from high prevalence areas.  The strategy also highlights the need to tackle undiagnosed HIV infection.

This strategy shows that the EU Commission has a clear understanding of the nature of the epidemic in Europe and will support effective policies to tackle HIV across the EU.  

Unfortunately discrimination and prejudice continue to affect people living with HIV across Europe and hamper efforts to prevent HIV.  Through this strategy the Commission sends a clear message that discrimination is not tolerated and human rights must be at the centre of HIV policy across the European region.”

Notes to the editor:

1 – A strategy for combating HIV/AIDS in the EU and neighbouring countries 2009-2013, COM(2009) 569/4, Commission of the European Communities.

For further information please contact: 
Katherine Sladden
Communications Officer
NAT
020 7814 6733 
press@nat.org.uk

NAT 
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