AIDS is world's greatest leadership challenge, high-level UN panel concludes

AIDS currently represents the international community's greatest leadership challenge, one that must be characterized by candid recognition of the disease's impact on societies and the steps that must be taken in response, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said today after a high-level interactive panel discussion on HIV/AIDS held at the United Nations.

"While acknowledging the formidable obstacles before us, the conclusions of the panel were not pessimistic," Mr. Annan said in summarizing the proceedings, which included the participation of 10 Heads of State and Government, a large number of government ministers, the heads of six UN agencies and more than 20 representatives of civil society.

"We are learning more and more every day about what works, resources are increasing and political leadership is gaining steam. But we must stay on course - and redouble our efforts - to remain true to the Declaration of Commitment adopted in this room just two years ago," he added, referring to the targets and strategies for fighting the pandemic agreed to at a special session of the UN General Assembly in 2001.

The panel examined the need to reduce stigma and discrimination, particularly against those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS, the importance of broad-based partnerships that draw on the strengths and contributions of all parts of society, and the need to mobilize resources on a far greater scale than currently achieved, Mr. Annan noted.

"A key theme running through the panel discussion was recognition that AIDS represents the greatest leadership challenge of our time. Leadership among - but not limited to - Heads of State. Leadership at every level of society - among faith-based organizations, community groups and the private sector," he said.

"[And] that leadership must be characterized by frank and honest recognition of the impact of AIDS on our societies, and the steps that must be taken in response," he added.