The message is being issued in the wake of alarming new data that points to an exploding HIV epidemic in eastern Europe. Central to their discussion was how to engage top-level political support against AIDS and prevent a catastrophe from taking place in eastern Europe. Political will and leadership are key, the statement said. Today we call upon all European Heads of State to utilize their national New Year s messages to declare their support for an action plan to stop this epidemic in their own countries, in Europe and beyond. Leaders of parliament, communities, religious groups, corporations, towns and cities, ministers of finance, health and youth, renowned artists and intellectuals all must engage in mobilizing to support this effort.
Most new infections are among injecting drug users.
Two decades into the epidemic, some clear lessons have been learned about what works and what does not. Young people in eastern Europe are particularly at risk, reflecting instability in the wake of the rapid social and economic changes. The international community has an important role to play. It can help mobilize national resources, train personnel, and provide technical guidance as needed. Many countries, particularly those most affected such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, the Republic of Moldova, the Russian Federation and Ukraine lack experience and expertise in this field.