Principles to guide Programming for Orphans and Other Children Affected by HIV/AIDS

The need for guiding principles to protect and fulfill the rights of children and adolescents affected by HIV/AIDS was highlighted at the XII International AIDS Conference in South Africa in July 2000. Since that time, formal and informal consultations among and between governments, non-governmental organizations, international agencies, the private sector, community organizations, and young people have been held to develop consensus on principles to guide programs for children and adolescents affected by HIV/AIDS. These principles now serve as a common point of reference at all levels (local, district, national, and global) to encourage actions that are child-centered, and family and community focused.

1. Strengthen the protection and care of orphans and other vulnerable children within their extended families and communities

2. Strengthen the economic coping capacities of families and communities

3. Enhance the capacity of families and communities to respond to the psychosocial needs of orphans, vulnerable children, and their caregivers

4. Link HIV/AIDS prevention activities, care and support for people living with HIV/AIDS and efforts to support orphans and other vulnerable children

5. Focus on the most vulnerable children and communities, not only those orphaned by AIDS

6. Give particular attention to the roles of boys and girls, men, women and address gender discrimination

7. Ensure the full involvement of young people as part of the solution

8. Strengthen schools and ensure access to education

9. Reduce stigma and discrimination

10. Accelerate learning and information exchange

11. Strengthen partners and partnerships at all levels and build coalitions among key stakeholders

12. Ensure that external support strengthens and does not undermine community initiative and motivation