A message from the United Nations in Ukraine
Since 2001, as part of a coordinated approach to the crucial issue of HIV/AIDS, the United Nations in Ukraine has organised an annual public awareness-raising event - the Race for Life. In 2002 more than 3600 participants and a number of generous sponsors, supported the race which raised US$8600 for the Lavra National AIDS Clinic and Hospice.
Epidemiologists now estimate that every 100th adult in Ukraine is HIV positive, and the country's infection rate is the fastest growing in the CIS region. Even more alarming is the fact that young people aged 15-29 are most at risk from HIV/AIDS. Over the past year, stronger measures have been taken by the government and other sectors in the fields of prevention and treatment, but there is still much to be done to prevent an epidemic on the scale seen in other parts of the world.
Managing HIV/AIDS makes sound business sense too; some firms have already started global workplace programmes educating staff and management on the issues of HIV/AIDS. These programmes are now being introduced in local firms and multinationals in Ukraine.
This year, Race for Life will take place on Sunday 21 September on Khreschatik. With the aim of sending the key message of 'It's your life... take control!' to the public, especially young people, the event will include the 3km run or walk, as well as an information fair and other related events. We hope to attract greater numbers of participants and spectators, more significant sponsorship, and raise funds for the Lavra Clinic and No. l Children's Hospital.
- Amanda Pitt, Event Director
Editor's Note
The Ukrainian Observer is proud to support this worthwhile endeavor of the United Nations in Ukraine. Our September issue will have more information on both HIV/AIDS in Ukraine and on the forthcoming race. In the meantime, all should mark their calendars for Sunday, September 21, 2003.
|
