| Abstract: | Because of their ability to more easily provide services to high-risk groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) will play a critical role in any successful AIDS prevention program. Since HIV is often transmitted through behavior deemed intimate or taboo, government health officials have a difficult time reaching the affected group. But NGOs, which have a long record of involvement in the field of health and social welfare, possess several advantages over government agencies: 1) they have rich experience working at the community level; 2) their autonomous nature allows them to respond more quickly; 3) they have access to marginalized groups; 4) they generally work with the target groups to raise their self-esteem; 5) they can act as a bridge between the community and the national level; 6) they often employ innovative methods; and 7) their method of operation allows for cost- effectiveness. Furthermore, NGOs can choose their own areas of involvement according to their feasibility, past experience, and priorities. NGOs can be instrumental in providing information on HIV infection and AIDS to the public particularly to special target group populations -- the young, women of reproductive age, prostitutes, and intravenous drug users. Additionally, NGOs can work in policy advocacy, in providing training for different groups, in providing counselling and other assistance to those affected by HIV, in screening donated blood, and in caring for AIDS patients. Though offering a great vehicle for combating the epidemic, NGOs will have to overcome several obstacles, including lack of government support, and lack of funds and resources. |
