On November 11–12, 2024, in Chișinău, Moldova, at the Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, the IAS Educational Fund symposium titled “Uniting science and community to accelerate the HIV response in EECA” took place. The event aimed to provide access to the latest scientific data, particularly those presented at the “AIDS 2024” conference, and to discuss their applicability in the local contexts of Moldova and other EECA countries.
Andriy Klepikov, Executive Director of the Alliance for Public Health and a member of the IAS Governing Council, delivered the opening speech. He expressed gratitude to partners and stakeholders whose contributions made the event possible and outlined the symposium’s main objectives. In his address, Mr. Klepikov emphasized the benefits of IAS membership, presented key findings from the Munich conference, and focused on the ongoing HIV epidemic in the EECA region, where HIV continues to rise in contrast to other parts of the world.
Special attention was given to the potential of innovative drugs such as lenacapavir, which could significantly influence efforts to combat the epidemic. The symposium also highlighted research findings on injectable cabotegravir, lenacapavir, doxy-PrEP, and PEP, as well as comprehensive prevention approaches. Andriy Klepikov stressed the importance of adapting services for displaced persons, responding to anti-LGBT laws in Africa, and avoiding the costs of inaction, which threaten to worsen the epidemic in the absence of strategic changes.
Additionally, Mr. Klepikov co-moderated nearly all sessions, actively engaging participants in discussions.
Among the symposium speakers were also Maria Malakhova and Galina Sergienko, who showcased their projects aimed at addressing the HIV epidemic in the region.
Galina Sergienko participated in the panel discussion “How can we improve HIV-related services for adolescents and youth in EECA countries and Moldova?” She presented the DrugStore initiative, highlighting its innovative and personalized approach to reaching young people, engaging them in services, and reducing risks among vulnerable groups.
Maria Malakhova spoke at the panel discussion “What is the role of technology and innovative approaches in the HIV response?” During the session “Innovative approaches in the HIV response across academia, science, and community work” she introduced TWIIN – a digital assistant currently being piloted in Ukraine. Maria emphasized how this technology can expand access to HIV services and address various existing challenges. She also announced plans to implement TWIIN in Moldova and Georgia in the coming years.
The event served as a significant platform for exchanging experiences, scientific achievements, and innovative approaches to addressing current challenges in the fight against HIV.
Uniting science and community to accelerate the HIV response in EECA
