HIV/AIDS prevention

 UNICEF supports one VCCT project targeting the most at-risk adolescents (MARA) in Zenica. Services are provided by the local NGO, Margina. This NGO has developed good relationships with beneficiaries who know they can always rely on project staff if they need help: “they know we will not let them down” – says one of them. VCCT services have played an important role in HIV prevention to help people make changes in their behavior and facilitate early and appropriate uptake of services for those who test HIV positive, including medical care, family planning, emotional and social support, and legal advice and counseling for positive living

UNICEF is a member of the UN Theme group on HIV/AIDS, provides technical assistance to the BiH Government to develop strategies and policies to fight HIV/AIDS and will, as a Sub-Recepient of Global Funds to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, work directly with NGOs in capacity building and outreach to populations engaging in risk behaviours.

 UNICEF is working with the state M&E group to strengthen capacities of relevant HIV/AIDS M&E professionals and NGO members in the area of behavioural surveillance surveys (BSS) and 2nd generation surveillance systems. Currently, UNICEF is collaborating with national partners to enhance the evidence base on the most at-risk adolescents and to establish systems for service and information provision. 

 UNICEF will conduct an analysis of the legal context for information and service provision to adolescents in order to strengthen the understanding of the legal implications of working with those under 18 years of age (e.g. informed/parental consent).

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Recognising the need for ongoing supply of HIV/AIDS tests as a support measure to BiH clinics and their VCCT services, UNICEF provides HIV/AIDS test kits when requested by the government.

It is expected that the activities in the area of M&E for HIV/AIDS and legal analysis will provide a strong basis for the successful implementation of the Global Fund project and will establish a sound and sustainable system for HIV/AIDS prevention based on evidence. At the same time, the work with NGOs and other relevant partners will enhance the service provision and awareness-raising for adolescents, especially MARA.