The politics of health governance: faith based organisations and transnational AIDS advocacy.

Upton, Mary (2014). The politics of health governance: faith based organisations and transnational AIDS advocacy. In: 39th British International Studies Conference, 18-20 Jun 2014., Dublin, Ireland.

Abstract

This paper forms part of a research project into the influence of faith based organisations (FBOs) on transnational AIDS advocacy and policy. The epidemic is distinctive in provoking responses beyond the biomedical; involving questions of morality regarding gender and sexuality in particular. A qualitative pilot study of transnational FBOs based in the UK identified changing perspectives on HIV prevention, due to the pivotal role of those working in alliance with transnational advocacy networks and in response to challenges from project partners working in countries where HIV and AIDS prevalence is high. FBO policies focused on harm reduction suggest that the saving of lives is taking precedence over questions of morality. However, countervailing pressure from those reinforcing traditional faith based approaches to HIV prevention continue to exclude the most vulnerable people whose access to health resources is limited by stigma and moral censure. Theories of power and networks explain how the process of non-linear deliberation between actors involved in the AIDS politics shape policy. Research now focuses on how the interrelationships of power between transnational networks, national governments and local partners influence AIDS policy.

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