In the framework of the UN Cares strategy, the UNODC HIV/AIDS Peer Educators Team conducted a special campaign for UNODC staff devoted to the World AIDS Day on 1 December 2009. More than 30 employees took part at the event and worn red ribbons to show their respect for the day. UNAIDS representatives also attended the campaign.
An opening speech was made by Mr. Kamran Niaz, Regional Adviser on Drug Dependence Treatment and Epidemiology. He conveyed the message of Mr. Antonio Maria Costa devoted to World AIDS Day. With this year's theme "I am living my rights", Mr. Costa's message underscored the right to health, and human rights against stigmitization and descrimination.
Mr. Akmal Rustamov, National Project Officer on HIV/AIDS made a presentation on the current HIV/AIDS situation in the world and Central Asia including the latest statistics on HIV cases and HIV prevalence among the most at risk populations. This session was followed by the HIV edutainment games which actively involved all of the participants and gave them chance to test their knowledge of HIV/AIDS, the modes of HIV transmission and the ways to protect oneself from HIV. Peer educators provided information on HIV prevention and made a demonstration of condom use. The winners of the contests were awarded with special prizes and certificates.