Twelve chapters were commissioned to experts around the Asia Pacific to examine how government, civil society, corporations, and media are responding to the rising tide of HIV/AIDS infection that is afflicting the region. These chapters portray a surprising diversity of experiences. Countries such as Australia had early, concentrated epidemics. Others, like China, are experiencing rapidly growing epidemics. Thailand has seen high but declining prevalence rates, while Vietnam is seeing exponential growth in rates among specific populations, particularly intravenous drug users. Meanwhile, Japan and others still have low prevalence rates but need to remain vigilant and active if they are to avoid an epidemic.
The varied responses by each society to the rising threat offer critical and practical lessons. Equally important is the increasing recognition that many problems contributing to the spread of HIV/AIDS are cross-border issues that must be addressed collaboratively. This volume provides detailed analyses by experts in the field who offer insight into the efforts occurring in their own societies to fight the spread of HIV/AIDS.
This report was produced in conjunction with JCIE’s Friends of the Global Fund, Japan (FGFJ) initiative and was also published in Japanese and Chinese.