With the number of HIV-infection of young people in
their reproductive age in South and Southeast Asia on the rise, there is
the prospect of an even larger increase of the number of children, which
will be affected by or left behind by this devastating pandemic.
The toll taken by the disease, begins during the period
of illness, continues through death and bereavement and will likely
persist into adulthood if adequate support and protection are lacking.
Estimations have stated that since the beginning of the
epidemic 11.2 million children have lost one or both parents to AIDS. In
2010, there will be more than 40 million orphans around the world: a
large number of undereducated, impoverished and less than healthy
children in underdeveloped social structures.
In Asia there does not seem to be any provisions to support children
affected by HIV/AIDS, children who are themselves HIV-negative; they do
not have the virus. There is no knowledge available about their number,
their living arrangements and conditions. There is no assessment
available of their needs, that of their caretakers, the local officials
and service personal.
Read entire paper on:
HIV/AIDS orphaning:
the new
long-term, chronic
problem of the century
Focus on South and South east Asia
