Abstract

PIP: This paper discusses different issues regarding the impact of AIDS on young people's lives, as well as implications for policies and programs to support them. It is noted that of the 30 million people that are HIV/AIDS infected, young people aged 10-24 years account for at least one-third. Reasons for this include inaccessibility to youth-friendly health services where they can discuss questions related to sexual health; susceptibility of young women; and sexual abuse and exploitation such as prostitution. Compounding these challenges, in the name of morality, culture or religion, young people are often denied their right to education regarding the health risks of sexual and other risk behavior, and the important tools and services for protection. In response, the Force for Change: World AIDS Campaign, culminating in World AIDS Day, promotes young people's genuine participation regarding the impact of the epidemic and promotes policies for health and development using human rights framework. Moreover, the Commonwealth Youth Forum of 1997 endorsed sexual and reproductive rights for all young people worldwide.