This policy brief lays out the German position for Germany’s international partners and provides a policy framework for decision-makers in German Development Cooperation. The first part discusses the rationale for a gender-sensitive, gender-transformative global response to HIV, describes the relevant international initiatives and resolutions and outlines the political commitment of the German Government. The second part discusses the priority areas of action that constitute Germany’s policy framework.

This report focuses on the gender dimensions of HIV-related stigma and aims to advance a more nuanced understanding and more effective advocacy on how stigma affects women and girls living with HIV differently to men and boys. The publication is meant to be used as an advocacy tool by relevant stakeholders – from international donors to global policy makers, national governments, programme managers, civil society and people living with HIV.