A synthesis of existing studies.

This paper introduces the conceptual framework of interrelated consequences of the economic crisis on HIV/AIDS prevention and control. On the basis of document research and in-depth interviews with officials at national and provincial levels, we explain how the Government of Thailand has dealt with the AIDS epidemic during the period of economic hardship.

Evaluation of the 100% Condom Programme in Thailand.

The HIV Netherlands Australia Thailand

In Thailand, too many girls find themselves at an early age in the sex industry, usually for lack of other options for earning a living. Young girls are desirable because they are thought to be “safe” and uninfected with HIV, but the risk of infection to them, and thence to their clients, is very high. This case study describes some responses to that problem, focusing on changing the attitudes of girls and their parents in regard to prostitution, and on providing a means for girls to avoid becoming sex workers through improved education and career opportunities.

The lessons learnt from the RTA’s experience in HIV/AIDS prevention and impact alleviation can be used as a basis for further development towards more effective and efficient models. It can also be a useful example for other agencies in Thailand and other countries with similar problems and similar socio-cultural backgrounds to apply and adapt for their own use.

Un innovador proyecto puesto en marcha en Tailandia ha apuntado directamente a estos obstáculos. El proyecto, el Programa de Asociaciones Positivas (PAP), tiene dos objetivos diferentes pero complementarios. El primero, permitir a las personas que viven con el VIH salir de la pobreza, se logra a través de la concesión de préstamos de microcrédito para que puedan formar pequeñas empresas en sus comunidades. El segundo objetivo es reducir el estigma y la discriminación relacionados con el VIH hacia las personas que viven con este virus. El proyecto se basa en una idea engañosamente sencilla: la creación de asociaciones comerciales entre una persona VIH-positiva y una persona VIH-negativa.