International AIDS Society

“Support a greater involvement of people living with HIV/AIDS through an initiative to strengthen the capacity and coordination of networks of people living with HIV/AIDS and community-based organizations. By ensuring their full involvement in our common response to the pandemic at all - national, regional and global - levels, this initiative will, in particular, stimulate the creation of supportive political, legal and social environments.”
The Paris Declaration, 1 December 2004

Background

The GIPA Principle, declared at the Paris Declaration in 1994 and formally adopted by the UNAIDS in 1999, affirms that people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) should be fully involved and integrated in the development of policies related to and programs providing HIV research, care, prevention, and treatment. PLWHAs contribute unique personal experiences and perspectives that are helpful to fighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Still, the GIPA principles’ have not been acknowledged and PLWHAs continue to be excluded. The empowerment of positive people is essential to facilitate a constructive and enduring HIV/AIDS response.