We can empower young people to protect themselves from HIV:UNAIDS Outcome Framework Business Case 2009–2011

Empowering young people to protect themselves from HIV is one of the priority areas identified for the UNAIDS Outcome Framework. This document explains the rationale for this priority area, and why success in this area will dramatically decrease new HIV infections and improve the lives of people living with HIV. It delineates what is currently working, and what needs to change in order to make headway in the area. This document will guide future investment and hold UNAIDS accountable for its role in achieving tangible results in countries with regard to this priority area.

The document presents an overall goal to be reached by 2015, which is a 30% reduction in new HIV infections among young people (15–24) by 2015 through the provision of comprehensive sexual and reproductive information, skills, services and commodities in a safe and supportive environment tailored to the specific country and epidemic context. Accordingly, three bold results have been identified to be achieved by 2011 in at least nine of the 17 countries that have the largest number of young people living with HIV:

Ensure at least 80% of young people in and out of school have comprehensive knowledge of HIV.

Double young people’s use of condoms during their last sexual intercourse.

Double young people’s use of HIV testing and counseling services.

The business case is intended to optimize partnerships between governments, communities, the UN, development partners and other stakeholders and strengthen our focus on the HIV prevention needs of young people.

Click here to access the document.