34 million people worldwide have HIV/AIDS. In 2010, 2.7 million people were newly infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and 1.8 million people died from Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Infected people – almost 23 million – live almost exclusively in sub-Saharan Africa and most of them are between 15 and 24 years old (more >).

HIV/AIDS and sexual and reproductive health and rights are closely connected. In both cases prevention plays a leading part. DSW provides contraceptives and information about sexual and reproductive health and rights. We help during and after pregnancy, offer treatments for sexual transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS, and empower women and girls to make them less vulnerable.

Thus, even more can be done by bringing together political authorities in European and international conferences and workshops. In our advocacy work, we direct political and public attention to signed contributions as well as to commitments such as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).