Combating HIV/AIDS within the European Union and in the neighbouring countries, 2006-2009

The Council held a policy debate on combating HIV/AIDS within the EU and in the neighbouring countries covering, in particular, the following topics:

- how to intensify both prevention efforts and civil society involvement, in each country and at EU level; examples of best practice;

- access to antiretroviral treatment and prices of antiretroviral drugs; sustainability of universal access to treatment also in some parts of Europe, measures / initiatives appropriate to tackle this problem.

Recognising that prevention is a key element to concretise the efforts aimed at fighting HIV/AIDS disease, the delegations suggested a number of examples of best practice, such as:

• the use of the Internet to inform a large number of people;
• programmes of education on health matters addressed to young people;
• identification of high risk population groups and preparation of information programmes targeted at such groups;
• personal advice, preserving the patient's anonymity;
• distribution of condoms at low prices;
• end of stigmatisation, with respect for human rights and of the right to privacy.

Concerning access to antiretroviral treatments at accessible prices, the delegations underlined the need to negotiate with the pharmaceutical industry and to show solidarity with the countries in economic difficulties. The Council further adopted conclusions based on the outcome of the Presidency conference on this topic, held in Bremen on 12-13 March 2007.