For the first time, Costa Rica will host the 6th Central American Congress on HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections and the 6th Central American Meeting of People Living with HIV/AIDS.
With the theme “Youth and Aids: my right to know and decide,” the government of Costa Rica and the local CONCASIDA organizing committee will host activities in the National Culture Center amphitheater in San Jose, the official launchpad of this important international event.
At the official opening, all public and national activities related to this topic will be recognized – activities developed by government ministries, civil society, non-governmental organizations, private businesses and cooperation agencies. The event takes place in Costa Rica October 25-30, 2009.
Heading up the event has provided Costa Rica a valuable opportunity to promote scientific and social exchange, which will lead to the strengthening of education and the exchange of experiences and information that will allow for a more effective, integral response in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
According to the minister of health, María Luisa Ávila: “I seek to bring about a space of reflection, analysis and decision-making, to put the topic of HIV in public opinion and on the political agenda as an urgent priority.”
In addition to a scientific and social participation agenda, a political agenda will be developed and led by the Costa Rica president, calling for a meeting of Central American presidents, ministers and highest authorities on youth.
These meetings hope to strengthen the topic of HIV/AIDS, positioning Costa Rica internationally regarding the topic and a allowing a greater cross-sectional commitment of public institutions and civil society to respond to HIV and thus contribute to the eradication of stigmas and discrimination.
“For CONCASIDA 2009 the attention is focused mainly on youth, utilizing a clear, complete, scientific, secular, up-to-date and inclusive sexual education as a tool of prevention and promotion in the field,” the health minister wrote.
CONCASIDA is an important even in terms of exchanging experiences, scientific information and updates on knowledge about HIV/AIDS. During these meetings, results are presented and alternatives are considered that allow for an effective response in the fight against AIDS.
Central America is preparing to change the course of the epidemic.
“Pass the ribbon, pass information, make change.”