Getting to zero inequity. Building bridges between AIDS and the social determinants of health

The UNAIDS Report focuses on the need of examining and addressing the social determinants of HIV risk, vulnerability and impact in order to achieve universal access to HIV prevention and treatment services.

Over the past 30 years, the AIDS movement has delivered some of the most remarkable results in the history of global health, by dealing directly with issues of social justice, gender and sexuality, human rights and human dignity —issues that shape the way people feel, act and live. The achievements of the AIDS response over three decades provide examples of strategies that can be used in other struggles for social justice.

Through partnership, strategic advocacy, and inclusive programme planning and implementation, urgently needed services can be delivered and transformative social change promoted.

The root causes of health inequities lie in societal conditions, not just in the status of health services. Tackling the social determinants of health requires multi-sectoral diagnosis, and inter-sectoral action. Action must be informed by evidence, rooted in broader development policies and alert to the political dimensions of public health.

Both the Social Determinants of Health and the HIV fields have made important advances in delivering as one, across distinct communities, stakeholders and sectors. Further success requires more evidence, strategy, inclusion, leadership, and commitment to balance the quest for immediate results and long-term social change.

Joined by common ideals of solidarity and social justice, the AIDS and Social Determinants of Health communities can do much more to expand the demand for integrated and rights-based approaches to health and development. We can build and connect networks, create alliances and support action to put social determinants on the global political agenda.

Building bridges and joining forces with other movements for health and social justice will accelerate progress across the MDGs, optimize efficiency in the use of resources, save and improve more lives, and help to create a world in which Zero inequity becomes a reality. (October 2011)

Getting to zero inequity. Building bridges between AIDS and the social determinants of health.pdf