First Africa-Asia InterAction on AIDS
Workshop on Ethics and HIV/AIDS
24-26 September 2002
Patumwan Princess Hotel, Bangkok Thailand

This workshop is the first of a series of activities entitled "Africa-Asia Inter-Action on HIV/AIDS" launched by The Rockefeller Foundation in collaboration with various African and Asian organizations. The idea behind the series is to transfer knowledge and experience between Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast/South Asia in the area of HIV/AIDS, in relation to both prevention and care. The exchange of expertise among researchers, practitioners, and policy makers from Africa and Asia is an essential input for strengthening health and development programs in both regions.

The series initiated with a study visit of experts from sub-Saharan Africa to Cambodia and Vietnam organized by the Africa Dialogue on AIDS Care and the Raks Thai Foundation. Following the visit, a workshop was held in Bangkok to examine the ethical complexity of HIV/AIDS research and treatment in resource-poor settings. Topics discussed included current ethical guidelines and their effectiveness, integration of women's reproductive rights in MCTC programs, and volunteer counseling and testing.