UNESCO Guidelines on Language and Content in HIV and AIDS-Related Materials

This publication aims to promote a harmonised use of language and content that reflect an approach to the HIV/AIDS epidemic which is comprehensive and inclusive, sensitive to the needs and issues of the whole population, but with focused attention on especially vulnerable populations. These guidelines were developed on the basis of consultations with and the support of colleagues within United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and other Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) co-sponsors, as well as other key stakeholders in the global response to HIV and AIDS.

Excerpt from the Foreword:

"HIV and AIDS evoke responses from each one of us - on both individual and institutional levels. Those responses, in order to be articulated and delivered, must be transcribed into textual, verbal and visual contents. They may vary from an oral presentation, to an analytical report on the dynamics of the HIV epidemic in a certain context, to a manual for educators, to technical support to policy-makers in the development of national strategies.

The complexity of HIV and AIDS, and the fact that what makes them exceptional is the stigma attached - a real impediment to prevention - makes the way we describe, discuss and portray HIV and AIDS instrumental to our success in effectively responding to the pandemic while fully respecting UNESCO's mission.

This publication provides guidelines for a harmonised use of language and content in HIV and AIDS-related materials that reflect an approach to the epidemic which is comprehensive and inclusive, sensitive to the needs and issues of the whole population, but with focused attention on especially vulnerable populations. The guidelines were developed on the basis of many consultations with and the support of UNAIDS and other UN agencies as well as key stakeholders in HIV - and AIDS-related work..."