There is growing demand that large-scale infrastructure projects in developing countries ensure social and environmental standards, and where HIV/AIDS is prevalent take that into consideration.

The government of Japan has agreed to assist the Ukrainian government in the Boryspil State International Airport Development Project outside the capital Kiev. Alongside the construction, the Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC) intends to provide preventive measures against HIV infection among construction workers.

JBIC first used JOICFP's expertise regarding HIV/AIDS with regards to construction of a second bridge between Laos and Thailand across the Mekong river. (see JOICFP eNEWS May 2004)

For the airport project, JBIC commissioned JOICFP to conduct literature research to support planning. JOICFP prepared a report of nearly 90 pages that includes recommendations for the Japanese government on ways to incorporate HIV/AIDS prevention into the project.

The recommendations urge the government clearly state who will carry out and pay for prevention activities, and what the activities should be. Furthermore, JOICFP recommends that HIV/AIDS prevention activities be considered from a long-term perspective, not only at project commencement, and that further research be conducted at the field level in order to identify stakeholders and collaborating agencies/organizations.

Background on Ukraine

For the latest UNAIDS report on Ukraine, click here.