1.  Title: Creating healthy families in Nepal: sustaining family planning practices among marginalized groups. Author: CORE Group Source: CORE Group, Washington, D.C., 2009 Mar. Abstract: This case study documents the sustainable activities and interventions of a USAID Flexible Fund Program, Valued Behavior for Healthy Families-A Model for Social Inclusion, that was implemented by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communications Programs through Save the Children/US in Nepal. Sustainable activities are defined here as those activities or practices that have been continued or improved after the project ended. The Valued Behavior project aimed to help women and couples from disadvantaged groups in Nepal realize their reproductive intentions through: a) increased knowledge and interest in family planning services through NGO involvement; b) improved quality of family planning (FP) services delivered by providers in selected facilities and the community; c) increased community access to FP services; and d) improved social and policy environment for FP and reproductive health services and behavior. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | SUMMARY REPORT | KNOWLEDGE | FAMILY PLANNING | SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT | POLICY | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Factors | Political Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 328782 |
| 2. Title: Human resources for health: Tools and publications. Author: Futures Group International. Health Policy Initiative Source: Washington, D.C., Futures Group International, Health Policy Initiative, 2009 Mar. [2] p. (USAID Contract No. GPO-I-01-05-00040-00) Abstract: The USAID | Health Policy Initiative, Task Order 1, fosters an enabling policy environment for improved health, especially HIV, family planning / reproductive health, and maternal health programs. Having adequate human resources is essential for scaling up and sustaining effective, accessible, high-quality health programs. To help ensure human resources, the project assists program planners to estimate human resource and training needs; identifies policy reforms to enable task-shifting and better workforce recruitment, training, and distribution; and mobilizes a multisectoral response by strengthening HIV-related human resources in workplaces, NGOs, and networks of people living with HIV (PLHIV). The project has also designed a Stigma Index that measures stigmatizing and discriminatory attitudes and behaviors among healthcare providers, highlighting an area that must be addressed by provider training initiatives. This flyer lists the project's computer models and publications on strengthening HIV-related human resource capacity. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HEALTH PERSONNEL | FAMILY PLANNING | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | MATERNAL HEALTH | WORKERS | RECRUITMENT ACTIVITIES | POLICY | COMPUTER PROGRAMS AND PROGRAMMING | STIGMA | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Labor Force | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Information Processing | Information | Social Problems Document Number: 331545 |
| 3. Title: RAPID Mali: Population, development, and quality of life. Author: Futures Group International. Health Policy Initiative; Mali. Ministère de la Santé Source: [Bamako], Mali, Futures Group International, Health Policy Initiative, 2009 May. [56] p. Abstract: Mali's population has tripled since it achieved independence in 1960. The country's fertility rate has remained stagnant for the past two decades and contraceptive prevalence rates remain much lower than in many other African countries. At the current rate of growth, the population would double in size in about 24 years. The purpose of this presentation is to examine some of the implications of this rapid growth for Mali's social and economic development. It is divided into six sections: Mali's Vision; Population Situation; Relationship Between Population and Economic Development; Population and Socioeconomic Development; Contraceptive Use, Unmet FP Need, and Effects of High Fertility on Maternal and Child Health; and Policy Response. This powerpoint presentation draws on analysis conducted using the RAPID model. Language: English Keywords: MALI | SUMMARY REPORT | YOUTH | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | FERTILITY | FAMILY PLANNING | MATERNAL HEALTH | CHILD HEALTH | POLICY | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraception | Population Dynamics | Health | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 331558 |
| 4. Title: Integrating multiple gender strategies to improve HIV and AIDS interventions: a compendium of programs in Africa. Author: John Snow [JSI]. AIDS Support and Technical Resources [AIDSTAR-One] Source: Washington, D.C., International Center for Research on Women [ICRW], 2009 May. [220] p. (USAID Contract No. GHH-I-00-07-00059-00) Abstract: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) AIDSTAR-One project created this compendium of selected HIV programs in sub-Saharan Africa that integrate multiple gender strategies. Featured programs address at least two of the following gender strategies: 1) reducing violence and sexual coercion; 2) addressing male norms and behaviors; 3) increasing women's legal protection; and 4) increasing women's access to income and productive resources. The compendium describes each of the 31 selected programs, and synthesizes trends and findings to provide initial insights on using multiple gender strategies in HIV programming, including how strategies are employed together, where gaps exist, and what lessons and experiences are common across programs. Though not meant to be exhaustive, the compendium represents the depth and breadth of current HIV programming that includes multiple gender strategies. Overall, we found that many innovative programs exist in sub-Saharan Africa and that implementers are successfully integrating multiple gender approaches into HIV programs. Program implementers report numerous benefits of combining gender strategies, including ensuring project salience and relevance, extending project reach, and reflecting the multiple, interrelated needs of beneficiaries. (Excerpts) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | SUMMARY REPORT | CASE STUDIES | RECOMMENDATIONS | HIV PREVENTION | INCOME GENERATION PROGRAMS | TREATMENT | CARE AND SUPPORT | FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | GENDER ISSUES | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | PROGRAM DESIGN | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | POLICY | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration | Political Factors Document Number: 331479 |
| 5. Title: Moving beyond gender as usual. Author: Ashburn K; Oomman N; Wendt D; Rosenzweig S Source: Washington, D.C., Center for Global Development, 2009. [91] p. Abstract: This document argues that despite well-meaning global strategies and policies, the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief; the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; and the World Bank's Africa Multi-Country AIDS Program have not yet been able to address gender inequality in HIV/AIDS programs. The authors urge donors, country governments, and relevant stakeholders to share knowledge and together support a comprehensive international gender analysis. Language: English Keywords: MOZAMBIQUE | UGANDA | ZAMBIA | SUMMARY REPORT | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | POLICY | AIDS | TUBERCULOSIS | MALARIA | TREATMENT | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | MONITORING | EVALUATION | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Infections | Parasitic Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 342032 |
| 6. Title: Demographic data for development in sub-Saharan Africa. Author: Baldwin W; Diers J Source: New York, New York, Population Council, 2009. 15 p. (Poverty, Gender, and Youth Working Paper No. 13) Abstract: More demographic data are being collected throughout the developing world than ever before, but the effective use of that data to further development goals is often lacking. This paper summarizes case studies on the demand for data in four sub-Saharan African countries, namely Ethiopia, Ghana, Senegal, and Uganda. The project's objective was to create a detailed portrait of access and demand at the country level, and to determine whether policymakers are getting the data they need to develop sound policies. Common findings across the four countries include an increased external demand from international initiatives that has not necessarily translated into internal demand for data; a missing link between producers and users of data; and a need for data to be presented in user-friendly formats. One driver of internal demand for data is the decentralization and democratization process that is underway in all four countries; this demand highlighted the paucity of available data that can be disaggregated at the level to which policies were being devolved. Next steps are to support initiatives to establish data access as a right, encourage a culture of data-sharing among funders and producers of data, strengthen intermediaries between policymakers and data collectors, display data in accessible formats such as maps, and disaggregate available data to the most useful levels. (Author's abstract) Language: English Keywords: ETHIOPIA | GHANA | SENEGAL | UGANDA | SUMMARY REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | DATA COLLECTION | CASE STUDIES | DATA QUALITY | NEEDS | DECENTRALIZATION | DEMOCRACY | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | POVERTY | GENDER ISSUES | YOUTH | POLICY | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Research Methodology | Studies | Data Analysis | Economic Factors | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Political Systems | Communication | Socioeconomic Factors | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 331433 |
7.  Peer Reviewed Title: The health and health system of South Africa: historical roots of current public health challenges. Author: Coovadia H; Jewkes R; Barron P; Sanders D; McIntyre D Source: Lancet. 2009 Sep 5;374(9692):817-34. Abstract: The roots of a dysfunctional health system and the collision of the epidemics of communicable and non-communicable diseases in South Africa can be found in policies from periods of the country's history, from colonial subjugation, apartheid dispossession, to the post-apartheid period. Racial and gender discrimination, the migrant labour system, the destruction of family life, vast income inequalities, and extreme violence have all formed part of South Africa's troubled past, and all have inexorably affected health and health services. In 1994, when apartheid ended, the health system faced massive challenges, many of which still persist. Macroeconomic policies, fostering growth rather than redistribution, contributed to the persistence of economic disparities between races despite a large expansion in social grants. The public health system has been transformed into an integrated, comprehensive national service, but failures in leadership and stewardship and weak management have led to inadequate implementation of what are often good policies. Pivotal facets of primary health care are not in place and there is a substantial human resources crisis facing the health sector. The HIV epidemic has contributed to and accelerated these challenges. All of these factors need to be addressed by the new government if health is to be improved and the Millennium Development Goals achieved in South Africa. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | HISTORICAL REVIEW | PUBLIC HEALTH | COLONIALISM | POLITICAL FACTORS | ECONOMIC FACTORS | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | SEX DISCRIMINATION | INEQUALITIES | FAMILY LIFE | VIOLENCE | HEALTH SERVICES | HUMAN RESOURCES | POLICY | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Health | Political Systems | Sociocultural Factors | Social Problems | Socioeconomic Factors | Family and Household | Behavior | Delivery of Health Care Document Number: 342803 |
| 8. Title: Iran: migrant smuggling and trafficking in persons. Author: Hosseini-Divkolaye NS Source: Forced Migration Review. 2009 Apr;(32):66-67. Abstract: This article examines two forms of irregular migration in Iran. It discusses differences between trafficking in persons and migrant smuggling, trends in Iran, recent policy initiatives put into place regarding these issues, and the punishment of unauthorized arrivals into the country. Language: English Keywords: IRAN | SUMMARY REPORT | HUMAN TRAFFICKING | SOCIAL PROTECTION | POLICY | LEGISLATION | Middle East | Developing Countries | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Political Factors Document Number: 340194 |
| 9. Title: The Thai Government's Repatriation and Reintegration Programmes: responding to trafficked female commercial sex workers from the Greater Mekong Subregion. Author: Jayagupta R Source: International Migration. 2009 Jun;47(2):227-253. Abstract: Since the 1990s, trafficked women and girls from neighbouring countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), including Myanmar, Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos), Cambodia, Viet Nam, and Yunnan province in southern China, have increasingly migrated to Thailand and worked in the country's thriving commercial sex industry. In response, the Thai government has launched a range of programmes to supplement its earlier programmes designed primarily to combat internal trafficking. This paper concentrates on one component of the Thai government's response: repatriation and reintegration. The paper is organized as follows: First, a definition of human trafficking, particularly as it relates to women and children, is provided. Second, a succinct discussion of the history of the domestic trafficking of women and girls into commercial sex work in Thailand, focusing especially on the Thai government's broad response to this dilemma, is given. Third, the dynamics of the relatively recent surge of trafficked women and girls from neighbouring GMS countries working in Thailand's commercial sex industry and the Thai government's efforts to combat this are discussed. Finally, the paper focuses on repatriation and reintegration in Thailand; by briefly discussing the situation that trafficked women and girls confront in this process, and by defining repatriation, reintegration, and reintegration assistance. The Thai government's repatriation and reintegration programmes are then described and critically reviewed, focusing particularly on the Kredtrakarn Protection and Occupational Development Centre. Recommendations on how to improve existing repatriation and reintegration programmes are provided. Above all, greater collaboration must take place in order to effectively and efficiently implement policies, plans, and projects to more successfully reintegrate trafficked women and girls back into neighbouring GMS countries, in particular at the local level. Language: English Keywords: THAILAND | CRITIQUE | SEX WORKERS | HUMAN TRAFFICKING | SEXUAL EXPLOITATION | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | LEGISLATION | SOCIAL PROTECTION | POLICY | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration | Political Factors Document Number: 341297 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Abortion access for incarcerated women: are correctional health practices in conflict with constitutional standards. Author: Kasdan D Source: Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health. 2009 Mar;41(1):59-62. Abstract: Does a pregnant woman who is in prison or jail still have the constitutional right to decide whether to continue her pregnancy or to have an abortion? The simple legal answer is yes. Of course, this provides little, if any, insight into what actually happens when thousands of women each year must make this decision while living behind prison walls.* But gaining such insight in any systematic manner has long presented a challenge to health professionals, researchers and advocates. The ways in which prisons handle a woman's abortion request are often shielded from public scrutiny, and they can be enormously varied. Women are incarcerated at the federal, state and local levels. Accordingly, policies and practices of prison and jail officials, and the experience of pregnant women in their custody, may differ dramatically from state to state, county to county, and facility to facility. Despite these challenges, understanding incarcerated women's ability, or inability, to access reproductive health care, including abortion, is key to developing strategies to advance their reproductive health and rights. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | CRITIQUE | ABORTION | PRISONERS | PRISONS | POLICY | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | COURT DECISION | CONSTITUTION | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Political Factors | Human Rights | Litigation Document Number: 341656 |
| 11. Title: Demographics of infertility. Author: Ledger WL Source: Reproductive Biomedicine Online. 2009;18 Suppl 2:11-4. Abstract: The demographic composition of many developed countries threatens their economies and global influence. On the one hand, the increased cost of living and of raising children discourages couples from starting families until later in life while, on the other hand, improved living standards have increased life expectancy. Together, these have resulted in a low total fertility rate and a net increase in the elderly population. The financial and employment protection incentives offered by governments have had relatively little impact on this demographic trend, and a multi-level approach is needed. Governments are, therefore, considering alternatives as part of a so-called 'population policy mix'. One option is to promote access to assisted reproductive technology for infertile couples. The prevalence of infertility has increased, in part because of general health issues, such as obesity and the rise in sexually transmitted diseases, and also because women are postponing having their first child. Improving accessibility to assisted reproductive technology will relieve the burden of infertility on these couples and may contribute to effectively challenging the problem of low total fertility rates in many developed countries. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPED COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHICS | FERTILITY RATE | INFERTILITY | REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES | POLICY | Demography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproduction | Political Factors Document Number: 342603 |
| 12. Title: Adolescent marriage and childbearing in India: current situation and recent trends. Author: Moore AM; Singh S; Ram U; Remez L; Audam S Source: New York, New York, Guttmacher Institute, 2009 Apr. 31 p. Abstract: Over the last decade and a half, little progress has been made in reducing the proportion of adolescents in India who become brides. While a range of socioeconomic and cultural factors may influence when a young woman gets married, past research has shown that areas where girls achieve higher levels of education have lower rates of early marriage. Keeping girls in school longer has also been found to delay early childbearing, which is rare outside of marriage in India. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICTS | TECHNICAL REPORT | HEALTH SURVEYS | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | MARRIAGE AGE | MARRIAGE POSTPONEMENT | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | NEEDS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | POLICY | LEGISLATION | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Geographic Factors | Population | Health | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Marriage Patterns | Marriage | Nuptiality | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Contraception | Family Planning | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 341003 |
| 13. Title: Advocacy for harm reduction in China: a new era dawns. Author: Reid G; Aitken C Source: International Journal On Drug Policy. 2009 Jul;20(4):365-70. Abstract: BACKGROUND: China's initial response to drug use and HIV was largely ineffective but has improved with recent government endorsement of harm reduction interventions. This paper examines the views of senior key informants inside China who articulated core needs and objectives for the development of a harm reduction advocacy strategy. METHODS: Thirty-nine key informants (KI) were interviewed, representing 19 stakeholder bodies selected from the Chinese government public health sector, public security sector, international agencies such as WHO, UNODC and UNAIDS, and international non-government organisations. RESULTS: The concept of harm reduction is widely understood and considered valid. Support for harm reduction is increasing, but KIs perceived an imbalance between the rapid expansion of methadone maintenance treatment programs over needle and syringe programs and other interventions. Challenges for harm reduction identified by KIs included: policy inconsistencies; lack of skilled resources, training programs and technical capacity; poor coverage of interventions; and gaps in the sharing of information. KIs suggested numerous ways to strengthen the capacity of the government and communities to reduce drug related harm. DISCUSSION: Increased acceptance of harm reduction in China, particularly among public security, implies a new level of optimism towards addressing the HIV epidemic among drug users, and parallels an impressive expansion of harm reduction interventions. Nevertheless, scaling up a response to the ongoing dual epidemic of drug use and HIV remains an enormous challenge. With appropriate technical education and training, ongoing advocacy, and a cohesive, coordinated multi-sectoral effort, the capacity of the government and community to adopt, support and promote measures to reduce HIV and other drug related harm would be markedly strengthened. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERVIEWS | RISK REDUCTION BEHAVIOR | POLICY | HIV INFECTIONS | ADVOCACY | DRUG USE AND ABUSE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Behavior | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Communication Document Number: 342703 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: Structural and environmental barriers to condom use negotiation with clients among female sex workers: implications for HIV-prevention strategies and policy. Author: Shannon K; Strathdee SA; Shoveller J; Rusch M; Kerr T; Tyndall MW Source: American Journal of Public Health. 2009 Apr;99(4):659-65. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: We investigated the relationship between environmental-structural factors and condom-use negotiation with clients among female sex workers. METHODS: We used baseline data from a 2006 Vancouver, British Columbia, community-based cohort of female sex workers, to map the clustering of "hot spots" for being pressured into unprotected sexual intercourse by a client and assess sexual HIV risk. We used multivariate logistic modeling to estimate the relationship between environmental-structural factors and being pressured by a client into unprotected sexual intercourse. RESULTS: In multivariate analyses, being pressured into having unprotected sexual intercourse was independently associated with having an individual zoning restriction (odds ratio [OR] = 3.39; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.00, 9.36), working away from main streets because of policing (OR = 3.01; 95% CI = 1.39, 7.44), borrowing a used crack pipe (OR = 2.51; 95% CI = 1.06, 2.49), client-perpetrated violence (OR = 2.08; 95% CI = 1.06, 4.49), and servicing clients in cars or in public spaces (OR = 2.00; 95% CI = 1.65, 5.73). CONCLUSIONS: Given growing global concern surrounding the failings of prohibitive sex-work legislation on sex workers' health and safety, there is urgent need for environmental-structural HIV-prevention efforts that facilitate sex workers' ability to negotiate condom use in safer sex-work environments and criminalize abuse by clients and third parties. Language: English Keywords: CANADA | RESEARCH REPORT | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | WOMEN | SEX WORKERS | CLIENTS | HIV PREVENTION | NEEDS ASSESSMENT | POLICY | LEGISLATION | RISK FACTORS | IMPACT | Developed Countries | North America, Northern | Americas | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Evaluation | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Communication Document Number: 330893 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: Incarcerated women and abortion provision: a survey of correctional health providers. Author: Sufrin CB; Creinin MD; Chang JC Source: Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health. 2009 Mar;41(1):6-11. Abstract: CONTEXT: Many women entering jail or prison are pregnant, and correctional facilities are therefore an important venue for providing a range of pregnancy-related care, including access to abortion services. However, the availability of abortion services to inmates in the United States is unknown. METHODS: Between October 2006 and March 2007, surveys about abortion provision were mailed to 951 health professionals who provided clinical care in correctional facilities. Descriptive statistics were tabulated, and measures of association were calculated using chi-square analysis. RESULTS: Of the 286 respondents who returned analyzable surveys, 68% indicated that inmates at their facility can obtain "elective" abortions. Eighty-eight percent of this group indicated that their facility provides transportation, but only 54% said that they help arrange appointments. Responses did not differ by providers' individual or institutional characteristics. However, providers from states with a Republican-dominated legislature or with a Medicaid policy that severely restricted coverage for abortion were more likely to indicate that availability of abortion services was limited than were those whose state had a predominantly Democratic legislature or a Medicaid program that covered all or most medically necessary abortions. CONCLUSIONS: Although incarceration does not preclude women's need for access to abortion, full access to services is not available in all settings. Improving women's overall health care in correctional settings should include increasing the accessibility of abortion services. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | HEALTH PERSONNEL | ABORTION | PRISONS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | POLICY | POLITICAL FACTORS | TITLE 19 MEDICAL ASSISTANCE | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Public Assistance | Grants | Financial Activities | Economic Factors Document Number: 341657 |
| 16. Title: An overview of urbanization, internal migration, population distribution and development in the world. Author: United Nations. Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Population Division Source: New York, New York, United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, 2008 Jan 14. 34 p. (UN/POP/EGM-URB/2008/01) Prepared for the United Nations Expert Group Meeting on Population Distribution, Urbanization, Internal Migration and Development, New York, New York, January 21-23, 2008. Abstract: The distribution of humanity on the earth's surface has always responded to the opportunities that different territories provide. After the invention of agriculture, the availability of arable land largely determined the place where most people settled. The practice of agriculture also permitted the accumulation of food surpluses and the differentiation of productive activities that led to the emergence of more complex settlements generically identified as "cities". In modern history, cities have played key roles as centres of Government, production, trade, knowledge, innovation and rising productivity. The changes brought about by the industrial revolution would be unimaginable in the absence of cities. The mechanization of production made necessary the concentration of population. Rapid industrialization was accompanied by increasing urbanization. In 1920, the more developed regions, being the most industrialized, had just under 30 per cent of their population in urban areas. As industrialization advanced in the developing world so did urbanization, particularly in Latin America where 41 per cent of the population was urban by 1950. In Africa and Asia levels of urbanization remained lower, although the urban population increased markedly, particularly in Asia. Between 1920 and 2007, the world's urban population increased from about 270 million to 3.3 billion, with 1.5 billion urban dwellers added to Asia, 750 million to the more developed regions, just under 450 million to Latin America and the Caribbean, and just over 350 million to Africa. These changes foreshadow those to come. Between 2007 and 2050, the urban population is expected to increase as much as it did since 1920, that is, 3.1 billion additional urban dwellers are expected by 2050, including 1.8 billion in Asia and 0.9 billion in Africa. These powerful trends will shape and in turn be shaped by economic and social development. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | RESEARCH REPORT | POPULATION DISTRIBUTION | URBAN AREAS | URBAN POPULATION | URBANIZATION | RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION | INTERNAL MIGRATION | POVERTY | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | RURAL POPULATION DISTRIBUTION | DEMOGRAPHIC AGING | DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS | POLICY | Geographic Factors | Population | Population Characteristics | Urban Population Distribution | Migration | Population Dynamics | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 323730 |
| 17. Title: Trafficking in persons report. Revised ed. Author: United States. Department of State Source: Washington, D.C., United States Department of State, Office of the Under Secretary for Democracy and Global Affairs, 2008 Jun. 292 p. Abstract: The Department of State is required by law to submit a Report each year to the U.S. Congress on foreign governments' efforts to eliminate severe forms of trafficking in persons. This Report is the eighth annual TIP Report. It is intended to raise global awareness, to highlight efforts of the international community, and to encourage foreign governments to take effective actions to counter all forms of trafficking in persons. The U.S. law that guides anti-human trafficking efforts, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, as amended (TVPA), states that the purpose of combating human trafficking is to punish traffickers, to protect victims, and to prevent trafficking from occurring. Freeing those trapped in slave-like conditions is the ultimate goal of this Report-and of the U.S. government's antihuman trafficking policy. There is an ever-growing community of nations making significant efforts to eliminate this atrocious crime. A country that fails to make significant efforts to bring itself into compliance with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking in persons, as outlined in the TVPA, receives a "Tier 3" assessment in this Report. Such an assessment could trigger the withholding by the United States of nonhumanitarian, non-trade-related foreign assistance. In assessing foreign governments' efforts, the TIP Report highlights the "three P's"-prosecution, protection, and prevention. But a victim-centered approach to trafficking requires us also to address the "three R's"-rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration- and to encourage learning and sharing of best practices in these areas. We must go beyond an initial rescue of victims and restore to them dignity and the hope of productive lives. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | TECHNICAL REPORT | HUMAN TRAFFICKING | SEXUAL TRAFFICKING | MIGRANT WORKERS | CHILD LABOR | HUMAN RIGHTS | POLICY | GOVERNMENT | LAWS AND STATUTES | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Labor Force | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Political Factors Document Number: 327634 |
| 18. Title: HIV and AIDS: Responding to a threat to education for sustainable development. Author: Allemano E Source: Natural Resources Forum. 2008 May;32(2):142-151. Abstract: The article seeks to sensitize the development community, particularly outside the education sector, about the issues surrounding education as a vehicle for promoting sustainable development in an AIDS environment in Africa. By illustrating how the epidemic impacts education sector staff as well as parents and students at all levels, the article intends to suggest how national authorities, NGOs and donor agencies can work out strategies to enhance the role of education in promoting sustainable development in Africa. Analysis will demonstrate how the AIDS epidemic weakens the education sector, particularly in countries with a generalized epidemic (defined as more than 3% of the adult population being HIV-positive), undermining the sector's ability to contribute to general literacy and sustainable development. The article will demonstrate that HIV and AIDS is still not fully accepted as an educational issue, which has hampered efforts to deal with its ravages in the educational sector. The need for holistic policy frameworks for supporting teachers and administrators living with HIV and AIDS will be discussed as well as how changes in curriculum and better relations with the community are important in addressing the needs of students. The article will highlight options for developing innovative responses to HIV and AIDS in African education, showing how different forms of education can serve as vehicles for responding to the challenges of the epidemic. The examples emphasize the importance of learner-centered instruction and partnerships with the health sector and other resources needed in an AIDS-affected environment. Key messages of the article are that the HIV and AIDS epidemic is a multi-sectoral problem and that responding to it effectively in the education sector requires coherent responses that address the needs of learners and instructors, including those who are personally affected or infected by HIV and AIDS. Adapting the Education for Sustainable Development initiative to address the challenges posed by the epidemic must be supported by policy development, leadership and advocacy. Diverse partnerships are essential, as the education sector alone cannot deal with the challenge of HIV and AIDS to sustainable development. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | RESEARCH REPORT | HIV | AIDS | EPIDEMICS | SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT | EDUCATION | SCHOOLS | POLICY | CURRICULUM | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | FUNDS | Developing Countries | Africa | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration | Financial Activities Document Number: 326899 |
| 19. Title: Integrating research into policy and programmes. Examples from the Jamaican experience. Author: Ashley DE; McCaw-Binns A Source: West Indian Medical Journal. 2008 Dec;57(6):555-61. Abstract: Research into selected health problems across the life cycle are discussed with respect to the application and impact of the findings on policy, programme development and health outcomes. Special emphasis is placed on health research that focussed on the perinatal period, the young child and adolescent, the epidemics of chronic diseases and violence and the linkage between health and tourism. The lessons learnt over more than two decades of practice in the field of public health from conducting research aimed at developing an indigenous evidence base for policies and programmes in Jamaica are summarized. Language: English Keywords: JAMAICA | RESEARCH REPORT | YOUTH | CHILDREN | DISEASES | RISK BEHAVIOR | PUBLIC HEALTH | FAMILY LIFE CYCLE | POLICY | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | Caribbean | Americas | Developing Countries | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Health | Family Research | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Political Factors | Technology | Economic Factors Document Number: 342424 |
| 20. Title: 2008 National Youth Shadow Report: Progress Made on the 2001 UNGASS Declaration of Commitment on HIV / AIDS. United States. Author: Asifuddin A; Clodfelter D Source: New York, New York, Global Youth Action Network, Global Youth Coalition on HIV / AIDS, 2008. 13 p. Abstract: In accordance with the 2001 Declaration of Commitment, the United States submitted a 2006 Country Progress Report to monitor and track targets towards the UNGASS goal of universal access by 2010. However, the U.S. government unfortunately did not submit a report for the 2008 UNGASS review in June. This failure to follow through on their pledge to the global community embodies the U.S. government's stagnant and reductive approach to sexual and reproductive health and rights and HIV. Despite fact that the U.S. is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, there are over a million people living with HIV (PLHIV), and due to Americans' mistaken belief that AIDS does not affect them, one quarter of PLHIV have not been tested and do not know their HIV status. There are also approximately one thousand PLHIV still waiting for access to treatment. According to AVERT, "the USA has no formal AIDS strategy, and thousands of uninsured Americans struggle to access good HIV care and antiretroviral therapy. The world's biggest donor of AIDS-related funding is itself facing a major, ongoing AIDS epidemic, and the situation grows worse each year." There are currently over 47 million uninsured Americans who cannot afford health insurance, and most of these are young people. The AIDS response in the US is unique among developed Western nations in that its policies are guided largely by conservative religious and patriarchal ideology, rather than science or human rights. This approach directly results in hundreds of unnecessary new HIV infections and AIDS deaths each year for lack of funding, education, information and services. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | YOUTH | SEX EDUCATION | POLICY | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | FUNDS | HIV PREVENTION | HEALTH SERVICES | HUMAN RIGHTS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Research Methodology | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Education | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Problems | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 326058 |
| 21. 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 |
| 22. Title: The road less travelled: gender-based interventions in the education-sector response to HIV. Author: Boler T Source: In: Gender equality, HIV, and AIDS. A challenge for the education sector edited by Sheila Aikman, Elaine Unterhalter, and Tania Boler. Oxford, United Kingdom, Oxfam GB, 2008. :105-128. Abstract: This chapter takes stock of the experience of nearly two decades of responding to HIV through the education sector and considers how gender issues have been addressed. It seeks to identify what interventions might be effective, and points to the steps that need to be taken by ministries of education to put these in place. In summary, it concludes that responses to HIV need to prioritise maximising the synergies between concerns with gender, education, and the HIV response. In particular there are lessons to be learned from gender-disaggregated data, and consideration of the ways in which masculinities and femininities shape experiences of education. There is a long way to go in most education systems in relation to developing an evidence base through monitoring and evaluation of gender issues and developing gender-sensitive practices in administration and in learning about HIV.However, there are some islands of good practice which give pointers to developments that can take place. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | LITERATURE REVIEW | INTERVENTIONS | YOUTH | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | RISK FACTORS | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | GENDER ISSUES | EDUCATION | WORKPLACE | POLICY | TREATMENT | CARE AND SUPPORT | CURRICULUM | Programs | Organization and Administration | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Adolescents | Biology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Sociocultural Factors | Employment | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Political Factors | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 330175 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Sexual diversity, social inclusion and HIV / AIDS. Author: Caceres CF; Aggleton P; Galea JT Source: AIDS. 2008;22 Suppl 2:S45-S55. Abstract: Despite a number of programmes to prevent HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM) and, more generally, sexually diverse populations, gay and other homosexually active men continue to be at heightened risk of HIV and its consequences. This paper analyses some of the reasons for this situation and offers policy and programmatic recommendations to contribute to a solution. The social exclusion of MSM and transgender individuals is an overwhelming reality in the majority of countries worldwide. Although progress has been achieved in some countries, in most of the world the situation remains problematic. Present challenges to equality and to the realization of health, include the membership of groups or subcultures with high HIV prevalence, lower quality and coverage of services and programmes and the impact of higher-level influences such as laws, public policies, social norms and culture, which together configure an environment that is hostile to the integration and needs of certain groups. A social inclusion perspective on HIV prevention and AIDS-related care implies the adoption of strategies to understand and confront social vulnerability. Sexual exclusion intensifies the burden of HIV transmission and morbidity. As part of a comprehensive response there is an urgent need to: (i) improve our understanding of the characteristics and HIV burden among sexually diverse populations; (ii) creatively confront legal, social and cultural factors enhancing sexual exclusion; (iii) ensure the provision of broad-based and effective HIV prevention; (iv) offer adequate care and treatment; and (v) confront special challenges that characterize work with these populations in lower and middle-income countries. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RECOMMENDATIONS | CRITIQUE | HIV PREVENTION | POPULATION AT RISK | INEQUALITIES | PROGRAMS | POLICY | MEN HAVING SEX WITH MEN | HOMOSEXUALS | BISEXUALS | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | CARE AND SUPPORT | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Research Methodology | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Social Problems | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 327862 |
| 24. Peer Reviewed Title: Moving beyond the alphabet soup of HIV prevention. Author: Collins C; Coates TJ; Curran J Source: AIDS. 2008;22 Suppl 2:S5-S8. Abstract: The 'ABCs' of prevention (abstinence, be faithful, use a condom) continue to be the subject of intense debate in the international dialogue on HIV/AIDS prevention policy. The authors argue that the ABC terminology infantilizes the prevention discussion by excluding essential interventions and oversimplifying the prevention challenge facing countries. The dialogue that is needed is less about the relative merits of one intervention over another, but rather how to promote comprehensive national prevention programmes that have a measurable impact on HIV incidence. Accountability is key to advancing HIV prevention on the national and international levels. Governments, donors and global agencies must be held accountable for prevention programming that is tailored to the specific characteristics of national epidemics, brings quality interventions to a scale, addresses environmental factors in vulnerability, and links prevention and treatment services. Whereas each national prevention response must remain unique, policy makers, donors and advocates can assess a country's prevention programming by the degree to which it is designed, scaled and implemented to make impact over time. (Author's) Language: English Keywords: CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | HIV PREVENTION | ABSTINENCE, BE FAITHFUL, CONDOM USE | ABSTINENCE | MONOGAMY | CONDOMS | PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS | POLICY | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Family Planning, Behavioral Methods | Family Planning | Marriage Patterns | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 327867 |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: Second trimester abortions in India. Author: Dalvie SS Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2008 May;16(31 Suppl):37-45. Abstract: This article gives an overview of what is known about second trimester abortions in India, including the reasons why women seek abortions in the second trimester, the influence of abortion law and policy, surgical and medical methods used, both safe and unsafe, availability of services, requirements for second trimester service delivery, and barriers women experience in accessing second trimester services. Based on personal experiences and personal communications from other doctors since 1993, when I began working as an abortion provider, the practical realities of second trimester abortion and case histories of women seeking second trimester abortion are also described. Recommendations include expanding the cadre of service providers to non-allopathic clinicians and trained nurses, introducing second trimester medical abortion into the public health system, replacing ethacridine lactate with mifepristone-misoprostol, values clarification among providers to challenge stigma and poor treatment of women seeking second trimester abortion, and raising awareness that abortion is legal in the second trimester and is mostly not requested for reasons of sex selection. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SEX DETERMINATION | SEX PRESELECTION | ABORTION LAW | POLICY | SAFETY | ABORTION | PREGNANCY, SECOND TRIMESTER | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Reproductive Technologies | Reproduction | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Public Health | Pregnancy Document Number: 330099 Notification |
| 26. 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 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Health services for survivors of gender-based violence in northern Uganda: A qualitative study. Author: Henttonen M; Watts C; Roberts B; Kaducu F; Borchert M Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2008 May;16(31):122-131. Abstract: The 20-year war in northern Uganda has resulted in up to 1.7 million people being internally displaced, and impoverishment and vulnerability to violence amongst the civilian population. This qualitative study examined the status of health services available for the survivors of gender-based violence in the Gulu district, northern Uganda. Semi-structured interviews were carried out in 2006 with 26 experts on gender-based violence and general health providers, and availability of medical supplies was reviewed. The Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) guidelines on gender-based violence interventions in humanitarian settings were used to prepare the interview guides and analyse the findings. Some legislation and programmes do exist on gender-based violence. However, health facilities lacked sufficiently qualified staff and medical supplies to adequately detect and manage survivors, and confidential treatment and counselling could not be ensured. There was inter-sectoral collaboration, but greater resources are required to increase coverage and effectiveness of services. Intimate partner violence, sexual abuse of girls aged under 18, sexual harassment and early and forced marriage may be more common than rape by strangers. As the IASC guidelines focus on sexual violence by strangers and do not address other forms of gender-based violence, we suggest the need to explore this issue further to determine whether a broader concept of gender-based violence should be incorporated into the guidelines. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UGANDA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH | INTERVIEWS | INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | SEXUAL ABUSE | SEXUAL EXPLOITATION | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | HEALTH SERVICES | HEALTH POLICY | POLICY | LEGISLATION | WAR | HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Settlement and Resettlement | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Health | Delivery of Health Care | Political Factors | Financial Activities | Economic Factors Document Number: 326998 |
| 28. Peer Reviewed Title: Inclusion of adolescents in preventive HIV vaccine trials: public health policy and research design at a crossroads. Author: Jaspan HB; Cunningham CK; Tucker TJ; Wright PF; Self SG Source: JAIDS. Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. 2008 Jan 1;47(1):86-92. Abstract: The search for a safe effective HIV vaccine has been a centerpiece of HIV research for almost 2 decades. More than 60 clinical HIV vaccine trials have been conducted to date. Several promising candidate HIV vaccines are in advanced clinical development. To date, however, no trial has included adolescents, one of the most important target groups for any preventive HIV vaccine. To license a vaccine for use in this age group, efficacy data or, at a minimum, bridging safety and immunogenicity data in this population are needed. To accomplish this, several critical issues and special challenges in the development and implementation of HIV vaccine trials in adolescents must be addressed, including regulatory considerations, potential differentials in safety and immunogenicity, alternative trial design strategies, recruitment and retention challenges, community involvement models, and approaches to informed consent/ assent. This article examines these issues and proposes specific next steps to facilitatethe routine inclusion of this high-priority population in preventive HIV vaccine trials as early and seamlessly as possible. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | ADOLESCENTS | HIV | VACCINES | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | CLINICAL TRIALS | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | SAFETY | POLICY | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | Technology | Economic Factors | Public Health | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 314029 |
| 29. Title: Gender inequality in primary education in the context of HIV and AIDS: a challenge for Uganda. Author: Kakuru DM Source: In: Gender equality, HIV, and AIDS. A challenge for the education sector edited by Sheila Aikman, Elaine Unterhalter, and Tania Boler. Oxford, United Kingdom, Oxfam GB, 2008. :45-59. Abstract: In the past decade, access to primary education for pupils in Uganda has increased, leading to the achievement of gender parity in enrolment (i.e. an equal number of girls and boys attending school). However, gender inequalities in school and classroom participation, attendance, and learning outcomes persist (Kakuru 2003; Kasente 2003; Okuni 2003; Kakuru 2006; Kakuru 2007).Over the years, various measures have been implemented to address the inequalities. A number of factors have been considered responsible for the persistence of educational inequalities, including the influence of patriarchal beliefs, values, and practices (Kwesiga 2003). HIV and AIDS have been blamed for reinforcing existing forms of social inequalities, including gender inequalities (Barnett 2004; Mohlahlane 2006; Kakuru 2007). Gender inequality has been described as a form of denial of equal treatment and opportunity (Unterhalter 2003; Aikman and Unterhalter 2005; Subrahmanian 2005). It is reinforced by poverty which perpetuates unequal access to national, community, and household resources. It is multi-faceted and has numerous causes, and numerous consequences for the economy and social relations. One feature of gender inequality is unequal gender power relations due to the patriarchal nature of cultural beliefs, values, and practices. Gender inequality is a cause as well as a consequence of HIV and AIDS. In order to explore these issues I draw on small-scale research in rural Uganda that examines the persistence of gender inequalities in the education sector in the context of efforts to address the epidemic. I will argue that although Uganda has done a great deal of work in terms of expanding access to primary education, this has not resulted in gender-equality gains at the grassroots level. One of the reasons for this is a fundamental disjuncture between policy and practice in terms of the education sector's response to HIV. In particular, the Presidential Initiative on AIDS Strategy for Communicating to Young People (PIASCY),with its focus on abstinence and the moral judgements associated with it, has created problems that have acted as barriers to improvements in gender equality. The study reveals inequalities in children's opportunities to advance to upper primary, and consequently to secondary education. Prior to the implementation of universal primary education (UPE) in Uganda, the tuition-fees requirement was assumed to be the major cause of disparities in school dropout, as those who could afford it continued with schooling, and those who couldn't dropped out. The government of Uganda has achieved remarkable success through the education-promotion campaign launched in 1996 (Cameron 2005). In fact, Uganda has almost achieved gender parity in primary-school enrolment, with national rates at 49.6 per cent for girls and 50.4 per cent for boys (Ministry of Education and Sports 2005). However, one of the greatest challenges for the Ministry of Education and Sports since the implementation of UPE is still school dropout. For example, there was an increase in dropout rates from 12 per cent to 20 per cent between 2001 and 2004, while completion rates declined (Cameron 2005). This is attributable to a multiplicity of factors. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UGANDA | LITERATURE REVIEW | PREVALENCE | WOMEN | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | PRIMARY SCHOOLS | EDUCATION | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | HIV INFECTIONS | POLICY | SCHOOL ENROLLMENT | POVERTY | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Schools | Socioeconomic Status | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Political Factors Document Number: 330172 |
| 30. Title: Unintended consequences of US policies on international women's health. Author: Kelly PJ; Geller SE Source: Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health. 2008 Sep-Oct;53(5):e35-9. Abstract: While the decisions and policies of individual countries have an impact on women's health locally, those of the US government have a profound global effect. While US agencies, both federal and nongovernmental, have expended millions of dollars in an effort to improve reproductive health, their efforts are often hampered by US policies that interfere with the best interests of the women they are trying to help. Although the United States has historically provided leadership and funding in international reproductive health agencies, the current situation is one of reduced or canceled funding to agencies and an insistence on linking funding with adherence to religious faith-based values. Over the past 8 years, three US policies in particular have greatly limited the work of government and international agencies to improve women's health: the international gag rule, cessation of funding to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and abstinence focus for HIV/AIDS prevention. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | DEVELOPED COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | WOMEN | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | MATERNAL HEALTH | WOMEN'S HEALTH | POLICY | FUNDS | ABSTINENCE | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Family Planning, Behavioral Methods | Family Planning | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 329650 |
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