Director's Message
For the past ten years Health & Development Networks (HDN) has implemented various HIV- and TB-related communication initiatives at the global, regional and country levels. Throughout that time we have argued that reliable information exchange, dialogue and advocacy are essential for addressing the epidemics effectively. Our work has helped enhance a growing civil society capacity and involvement in the design and implementation of relevant programmes and policies. Based on a decade of experience in this field, the HDN position today is clear:
Unless effective country-based information, dialogue and advocacy platforms on HIV and TB are an integral element of civil society participation and change, we will fail in our goals to achieve universal access to prevention, treatment, care and support services.
Without imminent change, the voices of civil society will remain fragmented, discourses on HIV and TB will continue to be dominated by those who already have the loudest voices, and accountability to the communities directly affected by decisions of those in power will not be achieved. Promoting greater transparency and participatory approaches happens in the countries and communities most affected by the two epidemics. Country-based information, dialogue and advocacy platforms on HIV and TB strengthen partnerships among disparate groups and provide a set of approaches and tools that can help place civil society at the centre of the response. Innovative solutions lie in the strategic combination of documenting the knowledge of those directly affected by the epidemics, analysing and interpreting other key information, strengthening local writing and analysis skills, and facilitating genuine dialogue. Strong, nationally-owned information, dialogue and advocacy platforms take time and active facilitation. They need to be developed urgently and within the unique context of each country. HDN is committed to this goal – are you?
Nadine France
Executive Director
Keywords: HDN, director, introduction, experience
