The Asia Regional Operational Plan 2023 Co-Planning Meeting hosted by PEPFAR is taking place from March 20th–29th, 2023. APTN’s participation in the event is crucial for learning about the progress and strategy related to HIV among the PEPFAR countries. As an organization that represents regional transgender organization, APTN plays a crucial role in ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Over the 10-day event, participants worked together to develop implementation plans for ROP23 and PEPFAR Five-year Strategy. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including the U.S. government, partner governments, civil society, faith-based and multilateral organizations, as well as public and private sector partners, to leverage diversity of thought and perspective.
The planning cycle and approach reflects the improvements recommended by PEPFAR stakeholders, and these 10 days were critical to the future of PEPFAR. The path charted together during the event will position the organization to reach the UNAIDS 95-95-95 HIV treatment target by 2025.
John Nkengasong, Ambassador-at-Large of U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, said, “I am confident that the impact we have achieved thus far will continue in earnest over next year and through 2030, the last mile of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.”
PEPFAR has been a strong supporter of APTN’s essential projects, which encompass the South East Asia Subregional Convening, the creation of Trans COMP CBM tools, and the development of the Towards Transformative Healthcare Module and Online Course. APTN’s involvement in the event provides an opportunity for the organization to share its experiences and expertise in advocating for the needs and rights of the transgender community in the context of HIV/AIDS. By participating in the discussions and working groups, APTN can contribute to the development of policies and programs that are responsive to the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals in accessing HIV prevention, treatment, and care services.
In addition to APTN’s participation in the event, other civil society and community-based organizations are also playing a vital role in shaping the future of PEPFAR’s HIV response. Through collaboration and partnership, these organizations are helping to build a stronger, more inclusive response to the HIV epidemic that can meet the needs of all communities affected by HIV/AIDS.
Overall, APTN’s participation in the Asia Regional Operational Plan 2023 Co-Planning Meeting hosted by PEPFAR is a significant step towards advancing the goal of eliminating HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. By working together with other stakeholders, APTN and other civil society organizations can help ensure that the HIV response is more effective, inclusive, and equitable for all.
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