WASHINGTON – Today, FHI 360 issued a set of approaches for HIV programs to adapt and remain resilient during increasingly frequent, more intense crises such as climate shocks, civil unrest, violent conflict and growing anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation.
“Acute and protracted events disrupt even the most agile and adaptive HIV services and threaten to reverse progress in ending HIV as a global health threat,” says Hally Mahler, director of FHI 360’s HIV department. “We’re living in a time of interconnected global crises, including climate events, violent conflict and political instability. These conditions can disrupt existing programs and create additional barriers to accessing HIV prevention and care, as well as other lifesaving medical services.”
People who are already vulnerable to HIV are particularly affected by ongoing crises due to factors such as stigma, discrimination, violence, poverty and lack of access to HIV services. These groups, known as key populations, include sex workers, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, and transgender people.
To help HIV programs mitigate the effects of various, interconnected crises on the key populations they serve, FHI 360 has released a document outlining three strategies: preparing for polycrisis by ensuring that systems are responsive and able to adapt swiftly, mitigating immediate effects of polycrisis, and promoting long-term resilience.
To learn more, view the document: Practical Considerations for Mitigating the Impact of Polycrises on Key-Population-Focused HIV Programs.
About FHI 360
FHI 360 is a global organization that mobilizes research, research and relationships so people everywhere have access to the opportunities they need to lead full and healthy lives. With collaborations in more than 60 countries, we work directly with local leaders to advance social and economic equity, improve health and well-being, respond to humanitarian crises, and strengthen community resilience. We share data-driven insights and scalable tools that expand access and equity so communities can effectively address complex challenges, respond to shocks and achieve thriving futures. To learn more, visit fhi360.org.
Contact:
Jennifer Garcia, FHI 360 media relations manager, jgarcia@fhi360.org
