1.  Peer Reviewed Title: Changing global essential medicines norms to improve access to AIDS treatment: lessons from Brazil. Author: Nunn A; Fonseca ED; Gruskin S Source: Global Public Health. 2009;4(2):131-49. Abstract: Brazil's large-scale, successful HIV/AIDS treatment programme is considered by many to be a model for other developing countries aiming to improve access to AIDS treatment. Far less is known about Brazil's important role in changing global norms related to international pharmaceutical policy, particularly international human rights, health and trade policies governing access to essential medicines. Prompted by Brazil's interest in preserving its national AIDS treatment policies during World Trade Organisation trade disputes with the USA, these efforts to change global essential medicines norms have had important implications for other countries, particularly those scaling up AIDS treatment. This paper analyses Brazil's contributions to global essential medicines policy and explains the relevance of Brazil's contributions to global health policy today. Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | CRITIQUE | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | AIDS | HEALTH POLICY | COMMERCE | ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUGS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | PRICING | HUMAN RIGHTS | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Policy | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Marketing Document Number: 341397 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: International health policy and stagnating maternal mortality: is there a causal link? Author: Unger JP; Van Dessel P; Sen K; De Paepe P Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2009 May;17(33):91-104. Abstract: This paper examines why progress towards Millennium Development Goal 5 on maternal health appears to have stagnated in much of the global south. We contend that besides the widely recognised existence of weak health systems, including weak services, low staffing levels, managerial weaknesses, and lack of infrastructure and information, this stagnation relates to the inability of most countries to meet two essential conditions: to develop access to publicly funded, comprehensive health care, and to provide the not-for-profit sector with needed political, technical and financial support. This paper offers a critical perspective on the past 15 years of international health policies as a possible cofactor of high maternal mortality, because of their emphasis on disease control in public health services at the expense of access to comprehensive health care, and failures of contracting out and public–private partnerships in health care. Health care delivery cannot be an issue both of trade and of right. Without policies to make health systems in the global south more publicly-oriented and accountable, the current standards of maternal and child health care are likely to remain poor, and maternal deaths will continue to affect women and their families at an intolerably high level. Spanish Abstract: En este artículo se examinan las razones por las que los avances hacia el Objetivo 5 de Desarrollo del Milenio respecto a la salud materna parecen haberse estancado en gran parte del sur global. Argüimos que además de la existencia, ampliamente conocida de sistemas de salud débiles, con servicios deficientes, número reducido de personal, debilidades administrativas y falta de infraestructura e información, este estancamiento está relacionado con la incapacidad de la mayoría de los países para satisfacer dos condiciones esenciales: crear acceso a servicios de atención integral de la salud financiados por el sector público y brindar al sector sin fines de lucro el apoyo político, técnico y financiero que necesita. Este artículo ofrece un punto de vista crítico sobre los últimos 15 años de políticas internacionales de salud como un posible cofactor de las altas tasas de mortalidad materna, debido a su énfasis en el control de enfermedades en servicios de salud pública a expensas del acceso a la atención integral de la salud, así como a los fracasos de subcontratación y alianzas entre los sectores público y privado de salud. La prestación de atención de salud no puede ser un asunto tanto de comercio como de derecho. Sin políticas para lograr que los sistemas de salud del sur estén más orientados hacia el público y sean más responsables, los niveles actuales de atención materno-infantil probablemente continuarán siendo deficientes, y las muertes maternas continuarán afectando intolerablemente a las mujeres y sus familias. French Abstract: Pourquoi les progrès vers l'OMD 5 relatif à la santé maternelle semblent-ils stagner dans la plupart des pays du Sud ? Les auteurs de l'article avancent qu'en plus des faiblesses largement reconnues des systèmes de santé, notamment les déficiences des services, l'insuffisante dotation en personnel, les lacunes de la gestion, ainsi que le manque d'infrastructure et d'information, cette stagnation est due à l'incapacité de la plupart des pays à rencontrer deux conditions essentielles : élargir l'accès à des soins de santé globaux et financés par l'État, et doter le secteur non lucratif d'un soutien politique, technique et financier cruellement nécessaire. L'article propose une perspective critique sur les politiques sanitaires internationales des 15 dernières années comme corrélat possible de la mortalité maternelle élevée, en raison de l'accent que ces politiques placent sur la lutte contre les maladies dans les services de santé publique, aux dépens de l'accès à des soins de santé globaux, et le manque de recours aux services extérieurs et aux partenariats public-privé dans la santé. Les soins de santé ne peuvent relever à la fois du commerce et du droit à la santé. Sans politiques qui orienteront les systèmes de santé du Sud vers une logique sociale et les rendront plus comptables de leurs activités, les normes actuelles des soins de santé maternelle et infantile risquent de rester médiocres, et les décès maternels continueront de toucher les femmes et leurs familles à un niveau intolérable. Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | PHILOSOPHICAL OVERVIEW | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | HEALTH POLICY | GOALS | MATERNAL MORTALITY | PUBLIC HEALTH | MATERNAL-CHILD HEALTH SERVICES | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | POLITICAL FACTORS | FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | PRIVATE SECTOR | Organizations | Sociocultural Factors | Policy | Planning | Organization and Administration | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Economic Factors | Macroeconomic Factors Document Number: 342018 |
| 3. Title: Summary report of the Expert Group Consultation on Tracking and Monitoring Gender Equality and HIV / AIDS in Aid Effectiveness. Author: Expert Group Consultation on Tracking and Monitoring Gender Equality and HIV in Aid Effectiveness (2008: Santo Domingo) Source: In: Making aid more effective: Promoting better monitoring and tracking of gender equality in HIV and AIDS responses, edited by Robert Carr. New York, New York, United Nations Development Fund for Women [UNIFEM], 2008. :23-32. Abstract: This chapter presents document highlights from an Expert Group Consultation convened by UNIFEM in collaboration with the European Commission to identify approaches to ensure that the aid effectiveness agenda promotes greater action on, and investment in, reducing HIV and AIDS among women. The consultation provided an opportunity to discuss how to make aid more effective in addressing the gender dimensions of the epidemic through the tracking of financing for gender equality in the response to HIV and identifying, reviewing and refining key programme indicators. Experts examined how and where gender equality and HIV are being woven into the aid effectiveness agenda, drawing on country examples and existing efforts. They also made recommendations for advocacy to ensure that aid is 'effective' for women. More importantly, this convening of experts provided an opportunity to examine strategies and tools to support nationally driven processes of tracking and monitoring progress to reduce HIV infections among women by improving their access to sexual and reproductive health and rights and by reducing violence they face. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | SUMMARY REPORT | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | AIDS | HIV INFECTIONS | FOREIGN AID | PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | ADVOCACY | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Socioeconomic Factors | Health | Human Rights | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Communication Document Number: 331402 |
| 4. Title: The level of Internet access and ICT training for health information professionals in sub-Saharan Africa. Author: Ajuwon GA; Rhine L Source: Health Information and Libraries Journal. 2008 Sep;25(3):175-85. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are important tools for development. Despite its significant growth on a global scale, Internet access is limited in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Few studies have explored Internet access, use of electronic resources and ICT training among health information professionals in Africa. OBJECTIVE: The study assessed Internet access, use of electronic resources and ICT training among health information professionals in SSA. METHODS: A 26-item self-administered questionnaire in English and French was used for data collection. The questionnaire was completed by health information professionals from five Listservs and delegates at the 10th biannual Congress of the Association of Health Information and Libraries in Africa (AHILA). RESULTS: A total of 121 respondents participated in the study and, of those, 68% lived in their countries' capital. The majority (85.1%) had Internet access at work and 40.8% used cybercafes as alternative access points. Slightly less than two-thirds (61.2%) first learned to use ICT through self-teaching, whilst 70.2% had not received any formal training in the previous year. Eighty-eight per cent of respondents required further ICT training. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: In SSA, freely available digital information resources are underutilized by health information professionals. ICT training is recommended to optimize use of digital resources. To harness these resources, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations must play a key role. Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | HEALTH PERSONNEL | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | INTERNET | TRAINING PROGRAMS | NEEDS ASSESSMENT | RESOURCES | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Information Networks | Communication | Education | Evaluation | Organization and Administration Document Number: 323152 |
| 5. Peer Reviewed Title: Reproductive health: A right for refugees and internally displaced persons. Author: Austin J; Guy S; Lee-Jones L; McGinn T; Schlecht J Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2008 May;16(31):10-21. Abstract: Continued political and civil unrest in low-resource countries underscores the ongoing need for specialised reproductive health services for displaced people. Displaced women particularly face high maternal mortality, unmet need for family planning, complications following unsafe abortion, and gender-based violence, as well as sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. Relief and development agencies and UN bodies have developed technical materials, made positive policy changes specific to crisis settings and are working to provide better reproductive health care. Substantial gaps remain, however. The collaboration within the field of reproductive health in crises is notable, with many agencies working in one or more networks. The five-year RAISE Initiative brings together major UN and NGO agencies from the fields of relief and development, and builds on their experience to support reproductive health service delivery, advocacy, clinical training and research. The readiness to use common guidance documents, develop priorities jointly and share resources has led to smoother operations and less overlap than if each agency worked independently. Trends in the field, including greater focus on internally displaced persons and those living in non-camp settings, as well as refugees in camps, the protracted nature of emergencies, and an increasing need for empirical evidence, will influence future progress. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | REFUGEE CAMPS | CRITIQUE | INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS | REFUGEES | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | NEEDS | HUMAN RIGHTS | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE | POLICY | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Settlement and Resettlement | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Migrants | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Economic Factors | Financial Activities Document Number: 327185 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: The World Health Organization and its work. 1993. Author: Bynum WF; Porter R Source: American Journal of Public Health. 2008 Sep;98(9):1594-7. Abstract: In 1948, after its first World Health Assembly, the WHO took action to form a Secretariat in Geneva. It was given space for its initial years in the Palais des Nations, which had been the last home of the League of Nations. As stated in Chapter I of its Constitution, WHO was "to act as the directing and coordinating authority on international health work." This was a much broader scope than any other international agency in the orbit of the UN. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | HISTORICAL REVIEW | WHO | ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION | PUBLIC HEALTH | HEALTH POLICY | HEALTH AND WELFARE PLANNING | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | UN | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Policy | Social Planning | Economic Factors Document Number: 328449 |
| 7. Title: Making aid more effective: Promoting better monitoring and tracking of gender equality in HIV and AIDS responses. Author: Carr R Source: New York, New York, United Nations Development Fund for Women [UNIFEM], 2008. 81 p. Abstract: In May 2008, UNIFEM and the EC organized an expert consultation on 'Tracking and Monitoring Gender Equality and HIV / AIDS in Aid Effectiveness,' to identify and promote approaches to ensure that the aid effectiveness agenda promotes greater investment and action on reducing HIV / AIDS among women and girls. Participants developed recommendations for integrating the gender equality dimensions of HIV / AIDS into national development planning, implementation and budgeting; for strengthening current indicators for monitoring and tracking progress to eliminate violence against women and improve women's access to sexual and reproductive health and rights in the context of HIV / AIDS; and for inspiring new areas of advocacy and new entry points for improving knowledge and awareness on gender equality and HIV and AIDS in the context of aid effectiveness. This publication presents the key findings of the consultation; it highlights the gaps in tracking budgets and expenditures on gender equality, and the need to transform the structural conditions that heighten the vulnerability of women and girls to HIV. It underlines the need for comprehensive gender equality indicators for use in monitoring progress in meeting key targets and goals outlined within the United Nations Declaration of Commitment on HIV / AIDS. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | RECOMMENDATIONS | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | AIDS | HIV INFECTIONS | FOREIGN AID | PROGRAM EVALUATION | FUNDS | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration | Socioeconomic Factors | Health | Human Rights | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems Document Number: 331397 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: Assessing debt-to-health swaps: a case study on the Global Fund Debt2Health Conversion Scheme. Author: Cassimon D; Renard R; Verbeke K Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health. 2008 Sep;13(9):1188-95. Abstract: The Debt2Health Conversion Scheme of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is used to reassess a range of recent initiatives that propose debt relief in exchange for spending in the health sector. The experience with debt swaps in the mid 1990s was far from positive, and recent improved insight in the economics of debt relief suggests extreme caution. We argue that the recent spade of debt swap proposals, even if targeting countries and debt titles that fall outside current major international debt relief mechanisms, share most of the design faults of previous initiatives. Proposals such as Debt2Health do not constitute efficient vehicles to increase net transfers to poor countries, to reduce the economic disadvantages of indebtedness, or to strengthen public health systems of partner countries. For debt relief to constitute a valuable mechanism to provide aid, it should be designed as a large-scale and comprehensive operation, with spending earmarked to broad country-established priorities, and reinforce rather than undermine national implementation systems. Language: English Keywords: INDONESIA | KENYA | PAKISTAN | PERU | RESEARCH REPORT | HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE | DEVELOPMENT PLANNING | HIV PREVENTION | AIDS PREVENTION | TUBERCULOSIS | MALARIA | FUNDS | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Asia, Southern | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | AIDS | Infections | Parasitic Diseases | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 328615 |
| 9. Title: Fatal misconception: the struggle to control world population. Author: Connelly M Source: Cambridge, Massachusetts, Belknap Press, 2008. xiv, 521 p. Abstract: Rather than a conspiracy theory, this book presents a cautionary tale. It is a story about the future, and not just the past. It therefore takes the form of a narrative unfolding over time, including very recent times. It describes the rise of a movement that sought to remake humanity, the reaction of those who fought to preserve patriarchy, and the victory won for the reproductive rights of both women and men -- a victory, alas, Pyrrhic and incomplete, after so many compromises, and too many sacrifices. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | HISTORICAL REVIEW | LITERATURE REVIEW | CRITIQUE | POPULATION CONTROL | FAMILY PLANNING | INTERVENTIONS | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | POPULATION POLICY | POPULATION PROGRAMS | FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAMS | FOREIGN AID | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration | Health | Human Rights | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Organizations Document Number: 328182 |
10.  Title: Bangladesh: Government of Bangladesh Contraceptive Procurement Bottleneck Study. Full report. Author: Dickens T Source: Arlington, Virginia, John Snow [JSI], DELIVER, 2008 Aug. 81 p. (USAID Contract No. GPO-I-01-06-00007-00) Abstract: In August 2008, Todd Dickens (PATH), with assistance from the USAID | DELIVER PROJECT, Task Order 1, conducted a review of the IDA-funded procurement of health care commodities under the Health, Nutrition, and Population Sector Program in Bangladesh. The study’s overall objective was to identify bottlenecks and problems that have lead to recent stockouts of contraceptives, and recommend possible actions that the Government of Bangladesh, USAID and development partners can take to address these problems that will improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the procurement process and support contraceptive security in Bangladesh. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | EVALUATION REPORT | RECOMMENDATIONS | GOVERNMENT AGENCIES | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | WORLD BANK | LOGISTICS | CONTRACEPTIVE SECURITY | OBSTACLES | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | DECISION MAKING | FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Evaluation | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Management | Organization and Administration | Contraceptive Availability | Contraception | Family Planning | Programs | Behavior | Economic Factors Document Number: 331672 |
| 11. Title: Continuum of care for HIV patients returning to Mexico [letter] Author: Donohoe T; Reyes M; Armas L; Mandel N Source: Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care. 2008 Sep-Oct;19(5):335-7. Abstract: The U.S.-Mexico Border region, which includes some of the poorest counties in the country, has large rural populations with health care service shortages leading to poorer health outcomes than in the rest of the country (United States-Mexico Border Health Commission, 2008). In combination with these factors, an increase in the number of HIV cases along the border led to a request from the Health Resources and Services Administration for a collaborative effort to systematically assess the education and capacity building needs of health care providers in this region. The three AETCs geographically located along the border (Pacific AETC [California, Arizona], Mountain- Plains AETC [New Mexico], and Texas/Oklahoma AETC [Texas]) interviewed more than 75 border clinicians to determine their unique HIV-related education needs. Four broad training-related needs emerged: (a) to increase integration and coordination of HIV training activities, (b) to expand HIV training beyond AETC-targeted providers, (c) to offer site-based trainings that include cultural sensitivity themes and incentives for participation, and (d) to maintain a binational perspective by including Mexican clinicians in training activities. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: MEXICO | UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | PROGRESS REPORT | EVALUATION | MIGRANTS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HISPANICS | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | HEALTH PERSONNEL | RETURN MIGRATION | TREATMENT | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | BORDER CROSSING | MASS MEDIA | TRAINING PROGRAMS | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Ethnic Groups | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | International Migration | Communication | Education Document Number: 329205 |
| 12. Title: Local Voices: a community perspective on HIV and hunger in Zambia. Author: Duck N; Swan SH Source: London, United Kingdom, ACF International Network, [2008]. 80 p. (Hunger Watch Publication) Abstract: This report documents the findings of Local Voices, a six month qualitative research project that provided HIV orphans, vulnerable children and their carers with the opportunity to discuss and document the difficulties they face providing food, water and healthcare for their families. Through meetings, detailed interviews and discussions the project initiated and developed an ongoing dialogue with 20 families in four areas of the Kitwe district in the Copperbelt province of Zambia: Chimwemwe, Kwacha, Chipata and Zamtan. The discourse that developed over the course of the project has given Action Against Hunger (ACF-UK) and CINDI insight in two key areas. Firstly, the research has added a household perspective to existing ideas and analysis of food security in an HIV/AIDS context. Secondly, the project highlights the knowledge and learning that can be gained when people living with a positive HIV diagnosis are seen as 'experts' and their experiences are used to help identify and address the problems they face. Through the voices of the project's participants, the testimonies and images that are the core of this document explore the social and economic impact HIV/AIDS has on families affected by the disease. ACF-UK and CINDI pioneered this work because we believe HIV/AIDS can no longer be seen as just a medical issue. Within this report we demonstrate that HIV/AIDS has a direct impact on the economic and social well-being of both households and communities; and as such it must be tackled using an integrated approach where food, livelihoods and social protection are highlighted as solutions alongside access to medical care. This report opens with statistics that outline current rates of HIV/AIDS and poverty in Zambia, focusing specifically on the Copperbelt province and the Kitwe district. The testimonies that form the centrepiece of this report are introduced by a summary of the key social and economic issues that HIV orphans, vulnerable children and their carers face, together with a synopsis of government and community based organisation (CBO) responses. These topics have been selected as they cover the core issues that were raised during the Local Voices project. The document ends with a brief conclusion and the report recommendations. Language: English Keywords: ZAMBIA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | COMMUNITY | HOUSEHOLDS | ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | MALNUTRITION | HIV INFECTIONS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | STIGMA | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | HOME ECONOMICS | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Organizations | Political Factors | Nutrition Disorders | HIV | Social Problems | Programs | Organization and Administration | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Microeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 327690 |
| 13. Peer Reviewed Title: Migrants as transnational development agents: An inquiry into the newest round of the migration - development nexus. Author: Faist T Source: Population, Space and Place. 2008;14(1):21-42. Abstract: Migrant networks and organisations have emerged as development agents. They interact with state institutions in flows of financial remittances, knowledge, and political ideas. In the discursive dimension, the new enthusiasm on the part of OECD states and international organisations, such as the World Bank, for migrant remittances, migrant associations and their role in development, is a sign of two trends which have coincided. Firstly, community as a principle of development has come to supplement principles of social order such as the market and the state. Secondly, in the current round of the migration-development nexus, migrants in general and transnational collective actors in particular have been constituted by states and international organisations as a significant agent. In the institutional dimension, agents such as hometown associations, networks of businesspersons, epistemic networks and political diasporas have emerged as collective actors. These formations are not unitary actors, and they are frequently in conflict with states and communities of origin. The analysis concludes with reflections of how national states structure the transnational spaces in which non-state actors are engaged in cross-border flows, leading towards a tight linkage between migration control, immigrant incorporation and development cooperation. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | MIGRANTS | SOCIAL NETWORKS | COMMUNITY | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | IMMIGRANTS | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION | REMITTANCES | DEVELOPMENT POLICY | POLITICAL FACTORS | SOCIAL MOBILIZATION | BORDER CROSSING | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Organizations | Economic Factors | Microeconomic Factors | Policy | Social Change Document Number: 323244 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: Stakeholders' opinions and expectations of the Global Fund and their potential economic implications. Author: Galarraga O; Bertozzi SM Source: AIDS. 2008 Jul;22 Suppl 1:S7-S15. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To analyse stakeholder opinions and expectations of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, and to discuss their potential economic and financial implications. DESIGN: The Global Fund commissioned an independent study, the '360 degrees Stakeholder Survey', to canvas feedback on the organization's reputation and performance with an on-line survey of 909 respondents representing major stakeholders worldwide. We created a proxy for expectations based on categorical responses for specific Global Fund attributes' importance to the stakeholders and current perceived performance. METHODS: Using multivariate regression, we analysed 23 unfulfilled expectations related to: resource mobilization; impact measurement; harmonization and inclusion; effectiveness of the Global Fund partner environment; and portfolio characteristics. The independent variables are personal and regional-level characteristics that affect expectations. RESULTS: The largest unfulfilled expectations relate to: mobilization of private sector resources; efficiency in disbursing funds; and assurance that people affected by the three diseases are reached. Stakeholders involved with the fund through the country coordinating mechanisms, those working in multilateral organizations and persons living with HIV are more likely to have unfulfilled expectations. In contrast, higher levels of involvement with the fund correlate with fulfilled expectations. Stakeholders living in sub-Saharan Africa were less likely to have their expectations met. CONCLUSIONS: Stakeholders' unfulfilled expectations result largely from factors external to them, but also from factors over which they have influence. In particular, attributes related to partnership score poorly even though stakeholders have influence in that area. Joint efforts to address perceived performance gaps may improve future performance and positively influence investment levels and economic viability. Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | PRIVATE SECTOR | SOCIAL MOBILIZATION | MEASUREMENT | RESOURCE ALLOCATION | FUNDS | INVESTMENTS | ECONOMIC FACTORS | PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Organizations | Macroeconomic Factors | Social Change | Financial Activities | Behavior Document Number: 328452 |
| 15. Title: Trips and public health: solutions for ensuring global access to essential AIDS medication in the wake of the Paragraph 6 Waiver. Author: Greenbaum JL Source: Journal of Contemporary Health Law and Policy. 2008 Fall;25(1):142-65. Abstract: In 2003, the World Trade Organization (WTO) proposed a waiver to the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), known as the "Paragraph 6 Waiver," in order to create flexibility for developing countries and to allow easier importation of cheap generic medication. ... To the companies who own pharmaceutical patents, the notion that a government can use their product without the permission of the patent holder seems unfair and counterproductive. ... Canada was one of the first countries to enact legislation for the sole purpose of exporting generic drugs to developing countries and its experience is indicative of the problems presented by compulsory licensing and the Paragraph 6 Waiver. ... Exact amounts and methods for determining remuneration vary but presumably a fair system would compensate patent holders for the loss of their patent rights while maintaining the system's cost effectiveness for countries issuing the compulsory licenses. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | POLICYMAKERS | PRIVATE SECTOR | AIDS PREVENTION | ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUGS | MACROECONOMIC FACTORS | LEGISLATION | ECONOMIC POLICY | HEALTH POLICY | SOCIAL POLICY | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Economic Factors | AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Policy Document Number: 330589 |
| 16. Peer Reviewed Title: Providing reproductive health care to internally displaced persons: Barriers experienced by humanitarian agencies. Author: Hakamies N; Geissler PW; Borchert M Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2008 May;16(31):33-43. Abstract: Reproductive health care for internally displaced persons (IDPs) is recognised by the Inter-Agency Working Group on Reproductive Health in Refugee Situations and the Reproductive Health Response in Conflict Consortium as a neglected area in humanitarian relief operations. To identify barriers to agencies providing reproductive health care to IDPs, and their strategies for overcoming these barriers, we interviewed representatives of 12 relief and development agencies providing health care to conflict-affected populations. Although material and human resources are significant constraints on agencies, the main challenge is to tackle ideological, managerial and policy barriers, and those related to donor influence. The absence of a legal instrument that recognises IDPs internationally has contributed to the difficulties agencies face in systematically reaching IDPs. Our findings suggest that considerable efforts are needed to close the gap between international commitments and the provision of services at field level. We recommend that agencies carry out awareness-raising activities internally and among partner organisations and donors, strengthen internal organisation and inter-agency collaboration and share expertise in order to maximise benefits and save resources at the local level. We also recommend exploring the possibility of an international convention to protect the rights of internally displaced persons. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | NEEDS | OBSTACLES | HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE | POLICY | COORDINATION | TREATIES | Settlement and Resettlement | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Economic Factors | Organization and Administration | Financial Activities Document Number: 327188 |
| 17. Title: Reclaiming the ABCs: the creation and evolution of the ABC approach. Author: Hardee K; Gribble J; Weber S; Manchester T; Wood M Source: Washington, D.C., Population Action International, 2008. [16] p. Abstract: This report was developed through review of the early literature on HIV/AIDS policies and programs in non-industrialized countries and of media material promoting prevention of heterosexual transmission of HIV in those countries. Material from the early days of the epidemic was difficult to obtain. Most materials were long ago archived or are in personal files in "basements". While the report focuses on the experiences of three countries, it also examines the early responses of international organizations to HIV in many other developing countries. Additional data were obtained using a snowball sampling technique through which the authors contacted people who had worked in HIV/AIDS prevention strategies. The pool of respondents is not intended to be exhaustive, but the respondents provide important voices of those working in the developing world at the beginning of the epidemic. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | UGANDA | LITERATURE REVIEW | HISTORICAL REVIEW | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | CLASSIFICATION | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | POLICYMAKERS | ABSTINENCE, BE FAITHFUL, CONDOM USE | FOREIGN AID | HIV PREVENTION | CONDOM USE | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | USAID | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Comparative Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Risk Reduction Behavior | Government Agencies Document Number: 329878 |
| 18. Title: Good news on measles boosts vaccination campaigns. Author: Kapp C Source: Lancet Infectious Diseases. 2008 Jan;8(1):13. Abstract: According to new data, the global number of measles deaths fell by 68% from 757 000 to 242 000 between 2000 and 2006. This decrease was a result of a spectacular 91% reduction in Africa, where countries rallied behind concerted immunisation campaigns to achieve a rare success story for a continent blighted by public-health failures. In Africa, deaths were cut from 396 000 to 36 000 by implementing the measles reduction strategy, which includes vaccinating all children before their first birthday and providing a second opportunity for measles vaccination through mass vaccination campaigns. "The clear message from this achievement is that the strategy works", said Julie Gerberding, director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which was one of the founding partners of the Measles Initiative, together with WHO, UNICEF, the American Red Cross, and the United Nations Foundation. She said the focus would now move to India, where an estimated 10.5 million children are not immunised. Some178 000 people died of measles in south Asia last year - mostly in India and Pakistan - only 26% down from 2000. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | MEASLES | VACCINATION | CAMPAIGNS | FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | FUNDS | IMMUNIZATION | HIB DISEASE | PNEUMONIA | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Communication Programs | Communication | Economic Factors | Bacterial and Fungal Diseases | Infections | Pulmonary Effects | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 323408 |
| 19. Title: Reproductive health surveillance in the US-Mexico border region: beyond the border (and into the future) [editorial] Author: Kotelchuck M Source: Preventing Chronic Disease. 2008 Oct;5(4):A109. Also available in Spanish: http://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2008/oct/pdf/08_0098_es.pdf Abstract: This editorial examines reproductive health surveillance in the US- Mexico border region. It offers improvements for reproductive health data system methods and recommendations for sustainability of the project. It also proposes revisions to the Brownsville-Matamoros Sister City Project for Women’s Health (BMSCP) in the following areas: maternal birthing experiences, women’s health over the life course, migration history, acculturation/cultural identity/border region identity, Latina reproductive health, and MCH policy relevance. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | MEXICO | PROGRESS REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | GOVERNMENT | BORDER CROSSING | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | EPIDEMIOLOGY | INFORMATION | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | PROGRAM SUSTAINABILITY | CULTURE | INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS | INFANT HEALTH | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | International Migration | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Public Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Data Storage and Retrieval | Information Processing | Child Health Document Number: 329180 |
| 20. Title: A case study of women's education within the Moroccan development model. Author: Marrakchi NL Source: Journal of North African Studies. 2008 Mar;13(1):55-73. Abstract: This paper examines the current efforts being made in Morocco in the field of women's education and evaluates the success of the Moroccan Development Model in the field of women's education by examining the topic through three lenses: international aid agencies, Moroccan government and royal efforts and the Moroccan Women's Movement. Consideration of the historical, religious and economic frameworks for each actor maintains priority within the study as a means of evaluating the progress made to date, the current status of women's education and the long-term goals and timeframes. The findings within this paper are primarily based on UN statistics, ratings, and definitions as well as other reputable sources such as the World Bank. Sources used include magazine articles, websites, academic journals and papers, and sociological, political and anthropological books on Morocco and women. It must be noted that this evaluation focuses on Anglophone and Francophone sources only and does not consider Arabophone sources. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MOROCCO | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | GOVERNMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | EDUCATION | LITERACY | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Interest Groups | Educational Status | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Human Rights Document Number: 323794 |
| 21. Title: The past, present, and future of reproductive health surveillance in the US-Mexico border region [editorial] Author: McDonald JA Source: Preventing Chronic Disease. 2008 Oct;5(4):A110. Also available in Spanish: http://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2008/oct/pdf/08_0086_es.pdf Abstract: This editorial discusses reproductive health surveillance in the US- Mexico border region. It touches on past, present and future projects for that area including the United States- Mexico Border Health Commission (USMBHC) and the Brownsville-Matamoros Sister City Project for Women’s Health (BMSCP). Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | MEXICO | PROGRESS REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | GOVERNMENT | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | BORDER CROSSING | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | INFORMATION | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | CHRONIC DISEASES | PUBLIC HEALTH | EPIDEMIOLOGY | RISK BEHAVIOR | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Organizations | International Migration | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Diseases | Behavior Document Number: 329179 |
| 22. Title: Key resources on monitoring and evaluation indicators related to gender and HIV / AIDS, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and violence against women. Author: Olkkonen A Source: In: Making aid more effective: Promoting better monitoring and tracking of gender equality in HIV and AIDS responses, edited by Robert Carr. New York, New York, United Nations Development Fund for Women [UNIFEM], 2008. :75-78. Abstract: The purpose of the document is to provide guidance on existing indicators on gender and HIV; HIV and violence against women; and gender, HIV and sexual and reproductive health and rights. These key resources include publications and databases from United Nations agencies, government agencies and non-governmental organizations. The list is not comprehensive, but only contains resources with the most relevant indicators. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CATALOG | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | FOREIGN AID | MONITORING | PROGRAM EVALUATION | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | HIV PREVENTION | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Socioeconomic Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Health | Human Rights | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems Document Number: 331406 |
| 23. Title: AIDS: can we meet the 2010 target? Author: Senior K Source: Lancet Infectious Diseases. 2008 Jan;8(1):14. Abstract: A report from the International Treatment Preparedness Coalition (ITPC) warns that meeting the "near universal access target" to AIDS drugs access by the 2010 deadline will require an enormous effort by governments, global agencies, and drug companies. According to the report, which looked at AIDS treatment access in 14 countries, "scale-up is working but high prices, patent and registration barriers, and ongoing stock-outs are core issues impeding AIDS drug delivery". "The issues highlighted in this report are real and widespread", said Nathan Ford of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF; Johannesburg, South Africa). The HIV programmes run by MSF across the developing world are struggling against user fees, high drug costs, lack of human resources, and poor health infrastructure, he told TLID. The ITPC, a group of 1000 treatment activists from more than 125 countries, highlights that the high cost of antiretroviral drugs is a particular barrier in Argentina, China, and Belize. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | GOVERNMENT | PRIVATE SECTOR | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | GOALS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | FEES | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Organizations | HIV | Planning | Program Evaluation | Programs | Financial Activities | Health Document Number: 323501 |
| 24. Peer Reviewed Title: The next 5 years of global HIV / AIDS policy: Critical gaps and strategies for effective responses. Author: Szekeres G Source: AIDS. 2008;22 Suppl 2:S9-S17. Abstract: The University of California, Los Angeles Program in Global Health performed a landscape analysis based on interviews conducted between November 2006 and February 2007 with 35 key informants from major international organizations conducting HIV/AIDS work. Institutions represented included multilateral organizations, foundations, and governmental and non-governmental organizations. The purpose of this analysis is to assist major foundations and other institutions to understand better the international HIV/AIDS policy landscape and to formulate research and development programmes that can make a significant contribution to moving important issues forward in the HIV/AIDS policy arena. Topics identified during the interviews were organized around the four major themes of the Ford Foundation's Global HIV/AIDS Initiative: leadership and leadership development; equity; accountability; and global partnerships. Key informants focused on the need for a visionary response to the HIV pandemic, the need to maintain momentum, ways to improve the scope of leadership development programmes, ideas for improving gender equity and addressing regional disparities and the needs of vulnerable populations, recommendations for strengthening accountability mechanisms among governments, foundations, and civil society and on calling for increased collaboration and partnership among key players in the global HIV/AIDS response. (Author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | RESEARCH REPORT | RECOMMENDATIONS | SURVEYS | HIV INFECTIONS | POLICY | ADVOCACY | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | INTERVIEWS | FOUNDATIONS | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | GOVERNMENT AGENCIES | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | LEADERSHIP | GENDER ISSUES | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Communication | Technology | Economic Factors | Data Collection | Organizations | Organization and Administration Document Number: 327859 |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: Sexual violence increasing in Democratic Republic of Congo. Author: Wakabi W Source: Lancet. 2008 Jan;371(9605):15-16. Abstract: As fighting flares up in the Democratic Republic of Congo, health workers are reporting a rise in brutal sexual violence against women. But, says Wairagala Wakabi, the international community continues to pay only lip service to the crisis in the central African country. Medical workers are concerned about rising incidents of sexual brutality against women in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which are resulting in mounting rates of trauma, fistula, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Although cases of sexual violence against women have been widespread in eastern DRC over the past decade, humanitarian workers say rape is becoming more violent and more common, yet the world continues to pay only lip service to the crisis in the central African country. Reports of gang rapes, sexual slavery, purposeful mutilation of women's genitalia, and killings of rape victims are commonplace in eastern Congo, especially in the north Kivu province, where fighting has subsisted for years. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO | CRITIQUE | MILITARY PERSONNEL | REFUGEES | SLAVES | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | WAR | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | RAPE | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | HEALTH SERVICES | Developing Countries | Africa, Central | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Government | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Population Characteristics | Organizations | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 323407 |
| 26. Title: HIV implementers have a unique opportunity in Kigali [editorial] Source: Lancet. 2007 Jun 16;369(9578):1974. Abstract: On June 16-19, the Government of Rwanda will host the third HIV/AIDS Implementers' Meeting-Scaling up through partnerships in Kigali. The meeting will address on-the-ground implementation of HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care programmes-to share best practice and disseminate lessons learned on what works well and where improvement is needed. Previously, this meeting served principally as an annual gathering for the US Government and its global AIDS grantees, but the 2007 HIV/AIDS Implementers' meeting has adopted a much broader scope and become much more of a collaborative event. Joining the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief are UNAIDS, UNICEF, WHO, the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and the World Bank, who are all co-sponsors of the meeting. The Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS is the meeting's official advisory group. The attendance of over 1500 programme implementers, the majority from Africa, should help to engender an environment for substantive, open, and honest dialogue. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: RWANDA | CONFERENCES AND CONGRESSES | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | AIDS PREVENTION | HIV PREVENTION | TREATMENT | IMPLEMENTATION | BEST PRACTICES | COORDINATION | Developing Countries | Africa, Central | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 317928 |
| 27. Title: Improving women's health. Source: Directions in Global Health. 2007 Sep;4(2):1-11. Abstract: The health of women in the developing world is a growing priority for the global community. We are increasingly aware of women's vulnerability to AIDS and other diseases-and the cultural factors that can reduce their opportunities to live healthy lives. At the same time, there is ever-greater recognition of women's enormous influence on the health and well-being of their communities. PATH has been a front-runner in the race to offer women better health solutions since our first project, in the late 1970s-helping manufacturers in China set up facilities for producing high-quality condoms and other contraceptives. Today PATH's work extends across the spectrum of women's health. The projects highlighted in this issue of Directions range from better care for mothers and infants to new options for woman-initiated protection against HIV to programs that help give women an equal chance at a healthy life. We anticipate that over the next decade, the investment in women among PATH and organizations like us will only continue to deepen. When women are healthy, so are their families and communities-the starting point for a stronger, more stable world. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | WOMEN'S HEALTH | INTERVENTIONS | MATERNAL-CHILD HEALTH SERVICES | ADVOCACY | HIV PREVENTION | VAGINAL DIAPHRAGM | FEMALE CONDOMS | BEHAVIOR CHANGE COMMUNICATION | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | ADOLESCENT HEALTH | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Communication | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Vaginal Barrier Methods | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Behavior Change | Behavior | Communication Programs Document Number: 322624 |
| 28. Title: Inadequate, but not quite hopeless. Source: Lancet Infectious Diseases. 2007 Jul;7(7):439. Abstract: The 2007 Group of Eight (G8) summit, which took place in Heiligendamm, Germany, on June 6-8, has been described by John Kirton (G8 Research Group, University of Toronto, Canada) as an "emerging centre of democratic global governance". Like many self-appointed elites, the G8 is an idiosyncratic club. The eight started as six in 1975 with a meeting in Rambouillet, France, of the heads of government of France, West Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the USA-the most economically powerful democratic nations. This annual forum for discussion of matters of mutual interest was joined by Canada in 1976, by the European Union in 1977, and by Russia in 1997. Although the G8 nations account for nearly two-thirds of world economic output, the Russian economy is not among the world's top eight, whereas China with the fourth largest economy remains outside the G8 club. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPED COUNTRIES | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | GOVERNMENT | LOW INCOME POPULATION | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | GOALS | FOREIGN AID | COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL | PROGRAM EVALUATION | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Planning | Organization and Administration | Financial Activities | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Programs Document Number: 318069 |
| 29. Title: Inter-agency agreement on mental health and psychosocial support in emergency settings [editorial] Author: Inter-Agency Standing Committee Task Force on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings Source: Bulletin of the World Health Organization. 2007 Nov;85(11):822. Abstract: Armed conflicts and natural disasters cause substantial psychological and social suffering to affected populations. Despite a long history of disagreements, international agencies have now agreed on how to provide such support. The Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC), established in response to United Nations General Assembly Resolution 46/182, is a committee of executive heads of United Nations agencies, intergovernmental organizations, Red Cross and Red Crescent agencies and consortia of nongovernmental organizations responsible for global humanitarian policy. In 2005, the IASC established a task force to develop guidelines on mental health and psychosocial support in emergencies. The guidelines use the term "mental health and psychosocial support" to describe any type of local or outside support that aims to protect or promote psychosocial well being or to prevent or treat mental disorders. Although "mental health" and "psychosocial support" are closely related and overlap, in the humanitarian world they reflect different approaches. Aid agencies working outside of the health sector have tended to speak of supporting psychosocial well being. Health sector agencies have used the term mental health, yet historically also use "psychosocial rehabilitation" and "psychosocial treatment" to describe nonbiological interventions for people with mental disorders. Exact definitions of these terms vary between and within aid organizations, disciplines and countries, and these variations fuel confusion. The guidelines' reference to mental health and psychosocial support serves to unite a broad group of actors and communicates the need for complementary supports. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | NATURAL DISASTERS | WAR | DISASTER RELIEF | MENTAL HEALTH | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | CARE AND SUPPORT | EMERGENCY SERVICES | COORDINATION | STANDARDS | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Environment | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Health | Behavior | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Organization and Administration | Research Methodology Document Number: 323433 |
| 30. Title: Program scan matrix on child marriage: A web-based search of interventions addressing child marriage. Author: International Center for Research on Women [ICRW] Source: [Washington, D.C.], International Center for Research on Women [ICRW], [2007]. 25 p. Abstract: The international community and U.S. government are increasingly concerned about the prevalence of child marriage and its toll on girls in developing countries. One in seven girls in the developing world marries before 15. Nearly half of the 331 million girls in developing countries are expected to marry by their 20th birthday. At this rate, 100 million more girls-or 25,000 more girls every day-will become child brides in the next decade. Current literature on child marriage has primarily examined the prevalence, consequences and reported reasons for early marriage. Much less has been analyzed about the risk and protective factors that may be associated with child marriage. Also, little is known about the range of existing programs addressing child marriage, and what does and does not work in preventing early marriage. The work presented here investigates two key questions: What factors are associated with risk of or protection against child marriage, and ultimately could be the focus of prevention efforts? What are the current programmatic approaches to prevent child marriage in developing countries, and are these programs effective? (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: ASIA | TECHNICAL REPORT | CHILD | CHILD MARRIAGE | ADOLESCENTS | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | MARRIAGE POSTPONEMENT | POLICY | LEGISLATION | AGE FACTORS | ARRANGED MARRIAGE | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | HEALTH AND WELFARE PLANNING | CHILD SURVIVAL | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | EDUCATION | FAITH-BASED ORGANIZATION | FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAMS | VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING | WOMEN'S STATUS | Developing Countries | Youth | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage Patterns | Marriage | Nuptiality | Health | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Social Planning | Survivorship | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Programs | Organization and Administration | Organizations | Family Planning | HIV Testing | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care Document Number: 321101 |
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