Local Initiatives (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
Local initiatives that help promote more effective and coordinated community mobilization – through relationship-building and networks – are an essential part of any national partnership platform. Local initiatives strengthen the backbone of partnership platforms with face-to-face interactions and networking. Activities such as HIV/TB resource centres, physical NGO forums, local discussion meetings, photovoice projects using photographs to stimulate dialogue (ie. TBPhotovoice Thailand) and skills-based trainings all bring civil society together for dialogue and experience-sharing about current issues, and help recognize and use strategic advocacy ‘moments’ more effectively.
Local Initiatives based in Chiang Mai, Thailand is a crucial component of Partners Thailand. The objectives include:
- To develop and maintain an effective portfolio of activities in the local Chiang Mai area that reflects the global mission of HDN, namely to improve information, dialogue and advocacy around HIV, TB and health and development issues among civil society;
- To maintain and strengthen Partners Thailand and HDN’s role as key facilitator at local (Chiang Mai) and national (Thailand) levels; and
- To encourage the active participation and collaboration of all organisations and sectors working locally with these issues.
Action Centre
The Action Centre provides a focal point for local initiatives, resource centre and meeting place for local NGOs to access information and resources and to discuss HIV, TB and other health and development related issues.
NGO Forum
Monthly NGO Forums are held to increase dialogue and action around HIV, TB and other health and development issues and priorities specific to Thailand.
TB Photovoice
TB Photovoice Thailand (TBPV) Raising awareness on TB and HIV in northern Thailand
TBPV is a project that uses photography to raise awareness and stimulate dialogue among communities affected by tuberculosis (TB) and HIV in northern Thailand.
National Advocacy Campaigns
Regional and national coordination and advocacy around key HIV and TB issues.
