JULY 2006 — FHI/Jordan convened a "Gender and HIV/AIDS Training" in Amman July 3-5 to examine the role of gender in HIV/AIDS programs, services and policy. Participants from the Ministry of Health, NGOs, and FBOs learned more about gender and its effects on HIV/AIDS, ways to improve gender norms, and ways to reduce inequality between men and women.

Negative traditional norms that lead to gender inequity and inequality play a large role in driving the epidemic throughout the Middle East/North Africa region. By viewing AIDS through a gender lens, programs can improve health outcomes such as decreased transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections; fewer unintended pregnancies; enhanced communication between partners; increased respect between the sexes; improved quality and use of services; decreased violence against women and girls; increased male involvement; and fewer harmful traditional practices.

The training included participatory exercises to encourage critical awareness of gender roles, promote the position of girls and young women, involve boys and young men, and address power relationships within the family and community. The 23 participants identified ways their organizations can more effectively promote gender equitable messages to reduce risks and vulnerabilities faced by both women and men. Because many of the participating organizations are in the early stages of HIV work, FHI anticipates that the training will strengthen their capacity to implement gender-sensitive programs from the start. Enhancing the ability of local agencies to address gender norms within the context of HIV/AIDS may also help Jordan remain a country of low HIV prevalence.

PHOTO: Gender training participants (FHI/Jordan).