TOPICS
Advocacy
Championing the rights and needs of vulnerable communities by influencing policy, raising awareness, and promoting social change.
HIV/AIDS
A chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that weakens the immune system, leaving individuals vulnerable to other infections. In the MENA region, prevention, access to treatment, and tackling stigma are critical areas of focus.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis refers to a collection of liver diseases characterized by inflammation, which can be caused by various viruses such as Hepatitis A, B, C, and others. The primary objectives are to increase awareness, advocate for readily available testing and treatment options, and provide support to patients in leading healthier lifestyles.
Tuberculosis (TB)
A contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, but can also spread to other parts of the body. Strengthening healthcare systems, providing effective treatment, and addressing socio-economic factors impacting TB prevalence are crucial in the MENA region.
(PWUD)
PWUD, which stands for People Who Use Drugs, is a term that encompasses individuals who engage in the consumption of psychoactive substances, including those who may have problematic or dependent patterns of use. The main objective is to advocate for their rights and overall health while supporting the implementation of harm reduction strategies, offering treatment options, and working towards eliminating the stigma associated with drug use.
Key Populations
Groups disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and TB, often due to stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion. Sex workers, LGBTQ+ individuals, and PWUD are examples of key populations in the MENA region.
Human Rights
Human rights are essential rights and freedoms that are inherent to every individual, encompassing fundamental entitlements such as the right to health, non-discrimination, and autonomy over one’s body. The primary goal is to advocate for and uphold human rights for everyone in the MENA region, with a specific emphasis on ensuring equal access to healthcare and promoting equality among individuals.
Public Health
The organized efforts to protect and promote the health of communities through disease prevention and health promotion initiatives. The primary aim is to reinforce public health systems in the MENA region, addressing infectious diseases and advocating for healthy lifestyles.
Sex Workers
Individuals who exchange sexual services for money or other forms of compensation. The objective is to advocate for their rights, safety, and health, working towards decriminalization and offering essential support services such as health, education, and harm reduction.
LGBTQI+
LGBTQI+ is a broad term encompassing individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other non-heterosexual and non-cisgender AND intersex identities. The aim is to support and stand in solidarity with the LGBTQI+ community in the MENA region, advocating for their human rights, promoting equality, and inclusivity, and striving to eliminate discrimination.
