Phasakorn Channgam
Started on December 1, 1988, World AIDS Day is about
raising money, increasing awareness, fighting prejudice and improving
education.
The theme for World AIDS Day 2010 is ‘Universal
Access and Human Rights’. Global leaders have pledged to work
towards universal access to HIV and AIDS treatment, prevention and care,
recognizing these as fundamental human rights. Valuable progress has
been made in increasing access to HIV and AIDS services, yet greater
commitment is needed around the world if the goal of universal access is
to be achieved. Millions of people continue to be infected with HIV
every year.
In low- and middle-income countries, less than half
of those in need of antiretroviral therapy are receiving it, and too
many do not have access to adequate care services.
The protection of human rights is fundamental to
combating the global HIV and AIDS epidemic. Violations against human
rights fuel the spread of HIV, putting marginalized groups, such as
injecting drug users and sex workers, at a higher risk of HIV infection.
By promoting individual human rights, new infections can be prevented
and people who have HIV can live free from discrimination.
World AIDS Day provides an opportunity for all of us
- individuals, communities and political leaders - to take action and
ensure that human rights are protected and global targets for HIV/AIDS
prevention, treatment and care are met.
In conjunction with cities around the world, Pattaya
City will organize activities to commemorate World AIDS Day December 1.
Activities are planned between 4 p.m. and 11.30 p.m.
A parade will begin in front of Soi 4 Beach Road at
4.30 p.m. heading down Beach Road towards Walking Street.
This year the public and public sector will be joined
by people working in the health and fitness sector who will distribute
condoms. The objective is to create awareness about the dreaded HIV/AIDS
and how to protect oneself from contracting it and preventing it from
spreading into the community.
