Ibn Sina Academy of Medieval Medicine & Sciences
[A registered trust]
Syed Zillur Rahman
Founder President &
Chief Editor, Newsletter of Ibn Sina Academy
Former Dean Faculty of Unani Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
MESSAGE
I take this opportunity to welcome all the delegates participating in this two-day programme
organized by the AIDS Cell on the occasion of World AIDS Day 2007. Over the last six years,
the AIDS Cell has been working in close collaboration with many international organizations on
different aspects of HIV and AIDS. By the grace of the Almighty and due to the efforts of many
committed workers, the Cell has attained a place of significance. The AIDS Cell is organizing
the program routinely for the past four years and apart from health professionals, people
from all walks of life registered their presence. I hope in the near future the AIDS Cell will
further organize such activities, which shall be a contribution towards the control of the
emerging epidemic of AIDS.
I hope the deliberations in the whole program will focus on some relevant points particularly
on this year’s World AIDS Day theme – Stop AIDS; Keep the Promise- leadership. We hope to
initiate the fire of activism amongst different sections of the society.
I extend my best wishes to the delegates on this occasion and hope that this bond gets
stronger and stronger with passing time.
Syed Zillur Rahman
Address: Ibn Sina Academy, Tijara House, Dodhpur, Aligarh-202002 (UP), India
Telephone: +91-571-3290275
Website: http://www.geocities.com/ibnsinaacademy
E-mail: ibnsinaacademy@gmail.com / rahmansz@yahoo.com
PROGRAMME
[2007: Stop AIDS; Keep the Promise- Leadership]
1.12.2007
Poster Exhibition on HIV/AIDS at JN Medical College, AMU, Aligarh: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Inauguration of Exhibition on HIV/AIDS Publications & Release of the Souvenir: 2:30 PM
Release of an Exclusive CD Rom of the AIDS Cell: 2:35 PM
Prize Distribution (Essay Writing): 2:50PM
Symposium on Medico-social Implications of HIV/AIDS in India: 3:00 PM onwards
(Courtesy: Indian Medical Association, Aligarh Branch, Aligarh)
Guest Speakers:
Prof. Ashraf Malik, Ex-Chairman, Department of Paediatrics, JNMC, AMU, Aligarh
Dr. Zubair Ahmad, Chairman, Department of TB & Chest Diseases, JNMC, AMU, Aligarh
Dr. Rajeev Gulati, Reader, Department of Physiology, JNMC, AMU, Aligarh
Dr. S. Ziaur Rahman, Lecturer, Department of Pharmacology, JNMC, AMU, Aligarh
Chair: Prof. Abu Qamar Siddiqui, Dean, Faculty of Medicine, JNMC, AMU, Aligarh & Dr. S.
Badrul Hasan, Former Medical Superintendent, JNMC, AMU, Aligarh
Vote of Thanks: Dr. Rajeev Varshney, Secretary, IMA, Aligarh
Refreshment: 6:00 PM
2.12.2007
AIDS Awareness Camp: Skit Presentation, Public Lectures, Free Blood Group and Health
Check-up, at Jeevangarh (Courtesy: MEDICS, LIG 11, Pushpanjali Colony, Ramghat Road,
Aligarh): 1100 AM – 2:00 PM
Symposium: Free Paper Presentation on HIV / AIDS, Poster Presentation along with Prize
Distribution: 3: 00 PM onwards
NOTICE FOR WIDE CIRCULATION
MEDICS & AIDS Cell, Ibn Sinā Academy, is organizing an essay writing and poster making
competition.
Topic for essay:
WHO KILLS AN AIDS PATIENT, IS IT THE VIRUS OR THE SOCIETY? ELABORATE
Theme for poster competition:
PREVENTION OF TRANSMISSION OF AIDS OR REHABILITATION AND CARE OF AIDS
PATIENT.
You can submit your posters and essays latest by 28th November.
RSVP
Md. Sehal Khan Abid
MBBS 2006 batch
Ph:09997454752
OR
Abdullah Ahmad Ansari
MBBS 2006 batch
Ph: 09997466577
AIDS Cell, Ibn Sinā Academy of Medieval Medicine & Sciences, Tijara House, Dodhpur,
Aligarh 202002, India; Ph: 0571-3290275
Solution Exchange for the AIDS Community
Source: Solution Exchange, which is a UN initiative for development practitioners in India. For more
information please visit www.solutionexchange-un.net.in
Consolidated Reply
Query: Islamic Religious Leaders and HIV - Experiences
Compiled by E Mohamed Rafique, Resource Person and Rituu B. Nanda, Research Associate
Issue Date: 21 November 2007
From Dr. Nabeel M. K., Academy of Medical Sciences, Kannur: Posted 1 November 2007
As a part of multi-pronged response to the HIV pandemic, involvement of Faith Based Organizations
(FBO) and religious leaders is vital. The Christian leadership has been continuing with their tradition of
care and support. By comparison, the Islamic response in the initial days concentrated mainly on the
preventive aspects. Unfortunately, in many parts of the country, its response is still at this preventive stage
without progressing to care and support. In Kerala, as in many other parts of the country, Islamic scholars
and religious heads do have a considerable amount of influence in their community. The Friday sermon for
the congregation and the Madrassah or religious schools for students and the Arabic Colleges, which groom
their students into scholars and religious heads, are ideal platforms for raising a positive approach and
mainstreaming the response to HIV.
We are planning to undertake a project, to train religious leaders and scholars with the potential to
influence the Muslim community at large. This task may not be very easy as traditional Islamic scholars
and followers are more conservative in nature. The way some scholars approach the subject has even
generated negative responses, thereby increasing the social stigma and discriminatory behaviour by the
people. Though strategies would differ among major religions, there could be common grounds. Therefore,
I would like to seek the advice of the community members in moving ahead with a project to involve and
train the Islamic Religious leadership especially in the areas of care, support, and stigma reduction. Based
on such experiences, we would like to initiate projects among leaders of other religions as well. Though we
had begun some groundwork in 2004, we failed to take it forward at that time. Specifically, I would like to
know from the members:
• Experience in conducting HIV intervention programmes through Faith Based Organizations elsewhere,
• Precautionary measures to ensure confidence and sustained patronage of religious leaders, and
• Training modules available, which discuss issues in the light of the Islamic principles drawn from
authentic religious texts.
Responses were received, with thanks, from
1.
V. Nandhini, Amity Humanity Foundation, Noida (Response 1; Response 2)
2.
Pushpa Patel, EKTA Yuvak Mandal, Surat
3.
Avnish Jolly, Consultant, Chandigarh (Response 1; Response 2)
4.
Tanweer Azam, Change Innovators, New Delhi
5.
Farida Vahedi, India Interfaith Coalition on HIV (IICH), New Delhi
6.
Yuman Hussain, Azad India Foundation, Noida
7.
M. R. Hariharan Nair, Pallium India, Trivandrum
8.
Saka M. J., Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON), Nigeria
9.
Farrukh Rahman Khan, Find Your Feet-India Office, Lucknow
10. S. A. Rahim, PEN India, Tirupati
11. Omid Zamani, UNICEF, Teheran
12. Raza Ahmed, Consultant, Bhopal
13. Peter F. Borges, The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Nagpur
14. Jitendra Panda, Somaliland National AIDS Commission (SOLNAC), Somalia
15. Lal Sangpuii, Salvation Army, Aizwal
16. Paul Ponniah, Jeevan Sagar Trust, Bangalore
17. Shafique-ur-Rahman, K. B. N. College of Engineering, Gulbarga
18. Waseem, Independent Consultant, Bangalore
19. M. M. A. Faridi, Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital, New Delhi
20. Shivananda Khan, Naz Foundation International, Lucknow
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
Syed Ziaur Rahman, Ibn Sina Academy, Aligarh
Sarwat Hussain Naqvi, Access Development Services (CARE India), Raipur
Arif Clinton, Labour League Foundation, New Delhi
Marcela Ruggeri, Universidad Nacional de Cordoba, Argentina
Zulfiker Ali, Iqraa Foundation and Medical College, Kannur
Krishnakanta Goswami, Independent Consultant, Kolkata
O. Raghuthaman, Kerala Health Services, Kasargode
Summary of Responses
Faith-based organizations can reach large audiences, influence policies and responses to HIV, as well as
harness the culture of volunteerism for care and support. Respondents shared experiences on HIV
programmes and strategies, developed and implemented in coordination with Muslim leaders.
As Muslims often look up to religious leaders for assistance and advice, their status makes them ideal
educators for Muslim communities. Respondents identified lack of information and misinformation as
major factors inhibiting scaling up of existing faith-based projects and developing joint initiatives.
Members emphasized the need to devise a process wherein HIV responses come organically from within
the Muslim religious structures themselves. Experience, members stated, shows that it is best to use a
participatory approach. For example in some regions, involving the leaders of FBOs in the initial stages of
the programme proved to be an essential step. Salvation Army in Mizoram has used religion as a vehicle to
respond to HIV. UNFPA has embarked on a number of joint initiatives with FBOs to address the spread of
HIV. Project HOPE in Malawi contributed directly to the Malawi National AIDS Control Programme by
training religious leaders.
Consultations with religious leaders must precede HIV programs to ensure a participatory process.
Participants suggested designing advocacy after researching the cultural context, instead of adopting one
model for all religious communities. HIV Regional Programme in the Arab States organized a religious
consultation followed by the Cairo Declaration. In Chandigarh, following a series of sensitization meetings
with the priests, a temple is disseminating awareness messages after prayer sessions and has also started a
HIV testing laboratory.
Recognising the potential of religious communities, several countries involved religious leaders early on in
the planning and implementation of HIV strategies. UNDP established a working group of stakeholders,
including the Department of Islamic Development in Malaysia as a key partner in implementing the
concept. Muslim communities in Uganda have worked on peer education, counseling, and home-care
programs. University of Hargeisa in Somalia has designed HIV strategy in consultation with Islamic
leaders to involve sheikhs and Imams at the community level.
Rather than limiting consultations as a pre-program activity, the dialogue with religious leaders must be a
regular one, respondents cautioned. This helps to build ownership of the programme and ensure common
understanding of issues. Technical support, monitoring and resource management along with emotional,
social, and personal interaction are also important components.
Using Islamic sources in advocacy campaigns has proved to be an effective strategy to facilitate project
ownership, subscribers reported. Approaches that avoids controversial issues and emphasizes the Islamic
‘ownership’ of the concept rather than pointing accusing fingers, found support. In fact, HIV issues fit in
perfectly with Islamic principles of morality. Quotation from the ‘Hadith’ and the holy ‘Quran’, providing
solutions make a difference, respondents emphasized. The Islamic practice of male circumcision has also
come into focus for its usefulness as a HIV preventive method. Hence, while trying to mobilize the Islamic
Religious leadership we must refer to such scientifically validated religious customs. In Bihar, sensitization
of Muslim religious leaders on HIV was by a similar approach. Leaders spread HIV messages in Friday
sermons, prayers, and regular religious gatherings.
The challenge is how to approach the subject and start a dialogue with the Ulema. Currently, the credibility
and the intention of the facilitator are crucially important, members informed. Involving medical personnel
for addressing Religious Leaders or using motivated community people to approach them can help build
bridges between the two groups. Starting from the subject of women, children and youth, advocators can
then reach the main issue of sexual health and HIV. Marrying the recent concepts of Adolescence
Education Programme with Islamic perspectives helps acceptance. Participants felt that awareness building
is effective if they combined the religious classes with health care sessions for the Ulema.
Members stressed on training and sensitization of all those whom the Muslim communities respect and
interact with. These include Ulema and Umera, office bearers of religious organizations, Khateeb and
Qazis, Imam and Muaddhins, Mahal officials and Madrassa teachers and Ustads.
Respondents listed various training modules, which discuss issues in the light of the Islamic principles
drawn from authentic religious texts. Publications by UNFPA and Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance define
how to engage with FBOs. Other manuals contain exercises to conduct in workshop settings and questions
to ask and train Muslim leaders. Members also provided other recommendations:
• Reference handbook for the Imams
• A benchmark knowledge and attitude survey of Imams
• Continuous follow up of joint projects with FBOs
• Involve more women religious leaders like 'Project Prathibha’ which involves Women of Faith
• Research on religious affiliation as a factor associated with a reduced risk of HIV transmission
• Capacity building and support of FBOs and link them for external funding including Government
funding sources
• Recognition of the role chosen by religious leaders themselves and due respect by other stakeholders is
essential
• Political will is a key element for success.
Members underscored that Islamic religious leaders can play an important role in HIV programs because of
their influence and acceptance among the congregation. Thus, the advice of the members and their
documents points towards building on their strengths as providers of care and treatment as well as in
advocating behaviour change. In addition, participants advised leaving out secular institutions from
working in areas that are against their religious beliefs. Islam, with its comprehensive code of conduct, has
built-in resistance to HIV. Participants welcomed the proposal from the India Interfaith Coalition on HIV to
NACO for holding training programmes for religious leadership and their volunteers.
Comparative Experiences
Delhi
Involving women of Faith (from V. Nandhini, Amity Humanity Foundation, Noida, response 1)
Amity Humanity Foundation under the 'Project Prathibha’ has brought out a module to train Religious
Leaders in HIV prevention and Care. It has concentrated on training women from Faith Based
Organizations as they are in the forefront in care, support and the prevention programmes. However, they
lack professional training and awareness in HIV care. Muslim women working on various social issues are
interested in this project.
Role of Muslim doctors (from Dr. Zulfiker Ali, Iqraa Foundation and Medical College, Kannur)
A Muslim doctor attended a programme conducted by Indian Ahle Hadith - Delhi, which had religious
scholars participating from Delhi, U.P, Bihar and other areas of North India. The doctor presented a paper
on the development of Muslim community in Kerala with emphasis on public health achievements through
Immunization and Family welfare. The doctor stressed on the necessity of Pulse Polio Immunization
Program and prevention of HIV through the active Religious and Health Care participation. The
presentation was effective as it came from a doctor who quoted Islamic teachings.
Surat
Involvement of Muslim leaders (from Pushpa Patel, EKTA Yuvak Mandal, Surat)
EKTA Yuvak Mandal is implementing an HIV prevention program in Salabatpura, Textile Market and
Limbayat areas, which are predominantly Muslim dominated communities. The trustees are from the
Muslim community and Muslim Leadership. Though the experience of interventions through Muslim
leaders has not been very easy, yet with some perseverance and without any external funding the
organisation has achieved positive results. Now, after three years some Muslim leaders including
Maullanas are involved in condom promotion and distribution channels.
Bihar
Sensitization of Muslim religious leaders on HIV (from Yuman Hussain, Azad India Foundation, Noida)
Azad India Foundation selected ten Maulanas in Kishanganj district and gave training on HIV issues
through modules developed by RATNEI and the Bihar AIDS Control Society and printed the material in
Urdu. It was difficult convincing the Maulanas but once they were convinced they did talk openly about
HIV in religious gatherings and community meetings as well as distributed pamphlets. Furthermore,
Maulanas conducted workshops with Maulavis and Madarasa teachers and sensitized over 1000 religious
leaders. They counseled more than 275 people for VCTC and in some cases took people for testing using
their own money.
Mizoram
Use of religion as an entry point (from Lal Sangpuii, Salvation Army, Aizwal)
Salvation Army's Community Health Action Network (CHAN) has adopted a religious approach to counter
the HIV epidemic in the pre-dominantly Christian communities of Mizoram. CHAN has used its mission
statement of meeting human needs in the name of Jesus Christ without discrimination as the entry point to
the community. The structures within the church of the women’s and youth groups have made it easier for
the community to respond to HIV.
Chandigarh
Awareness and testing in a Temple (from Dr. Avnish Jolly, Consultant, Chandigarh, response 2)
Every weekend after the morning prayers in Shri Guga Mari Temple, the priests talk about HIV and
encourage people to get HIV test done before getting married. The temple has set up a laboratory to
conduct HIV tests. The laboratory has qualified doctors and is funded by the temple is to carry out the tests.
The sessions have not only increased the awareness among people but also encouraged them to go for HIV
testing.
Madhya Pradesh
Motivation of religious leaders
In Narsinghpur district, a project team trained ten religious leaders including six Hindus, one Muslim, one
Christian, one Jain and one Sikh leader on HIV issues. A motivational team developed by some local
influential persons worked to motivate the religious leaders to include HIV messages in their discourses.
The evaluation done was by recording the discourse and through exit interviews of the followers. Out of
ten, nine religious leaders were not only convinced but they were quite enthusiastic to talk about HIV.
Bangladesh
UNFPA supported intervention programme (from Tanweer Azam, Change Innovators, New Delhi)
Since 2000, Islamic Foundation a statutory body under the Ministry of Religious Affairs has trained 9000
Imams and 34 women religious leaders on issues of Reproductive Health, Gender, and HIV prevention with
the existing curriculum of the Imam Training Academy. Religious lectures communicate sensitive issues
like polygamy, HIV, and family planning at mosques and other gatherings with supporting quotes from the
Quran and the Hadith. The training programme has seen participation from larger numbers than was
originally anticipated.
From Dr. Saka M. J., Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON), Nigeria
Senegal
Use of unique techniques
Jamra, an Islamic NGO, provided a mechanism for involving Islamic leaders in HIV prevention and drew
on messages from the Holy Quran and Hadiths to mobilize the leaders of representatives. It showed films to
the religious leaders. SIDA-Service was the entry point for drawing in clergy while respecting the church’s
hierarchy. SIDA-Service members met the bishops with some PLHIV, which gave a human face to the
epidemic. Both community leaders did not condemn condoms but underlined values such as fidelity and
abstinence before marriage. Studies show substantial increase in condom use and awareness levels.
Namibia
Church Leaders Train for HIV Battle
Regional AIDS Coordinating Committee with the Ministry of Health and Social Services organized
training workshop for church leaders to enhance their participation in HIV prevention. The emphasis was
on the importance of the World AIDS Day, the National Condom Day, home based care, nutrition and
PLHIV. The training helped to change participants' mindset and coached them to realize that HIV as one of
the obstacles to the growth of religion as many religious members fall victim to HIV. As it is difficult for
church leaders to propagate condom use, the only alternate methods for the church are abstinence and delay
in sexual activities until marriage.
Somalia
HIV intervention programmes through FBOs (from Jitendra Panda, Somaliland National AIDS
Commission, Somalia)
NGO Progression has engaged with Islamic religious leaders and religious institutions and formed Islamic
leaders’ group and provides technical and managerial support. The Faculty of Islamic studies at the
University of Hargeisa has designed HIV strategy in consultation with Islamic leaders to involve sheikhs
and Imams at the community level. Strategies include involving the Imams on HIV issues of giving
sermons during Friday prayer congregations, home visits, and preaching in public places with verses from
the Quran explained both in Arabic and Somali. Various NGOs have involved mobile religious groups like
street preachers in their prevention education campaigns.
Malaysia
UNDP project on HIV and Islam, January 2003 – December 2005 (from Dr. Paul Ponniah, Jeevan
Sagar Trust, Bangalore)
UNDP established a working group of all stakeholders, including the Department of Islamic Development,
Malaysia as a key partner to increase HIV knowledge among religious leaders. The project was able to
identify potential partners among state religious departments and individuals who were motivated in
carrying the project forward. The two challenges were the open discussion of condom use outside marriage
and the lack of full support of the high-level religious leadership. Religious leaders took up the issues of
IDUs and those related to the youth.
Mauritania
Islam and HIV Project (from Dr. M. M. A. Faridi, Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital, New Delhi)
From 2000, The US Embassy in Mauritania, STOPSIDA, Mauritania High Islamic Council and PNLS
Mauritania have been collaborating to train Islamic leaders to talk to their constituents about HIV using
references to Islamic teachings. This has included training workshops, supervision visits, and a guidebook.
Religious leaders are normally a challenge to work with because of their conservative sexual viewpoints.
Yet, eighty-eight Mosque Imams and religious teachers got themselves trained. With most of the
population being Muslim, working with religious leaders to disseminate HIV prevention as well as care and
support messages has insured reaching a wide audience.
From Syed Ziaur Rahman, Ibn Sina Academy, Aligarh
Malawi
Training religious leaders in HIV prevention and counselling
Project HOPE trained religious leaders in Malawi to include HIV prevention and counselling in their
existing religious programmes to produce behaviour change. The training focused on leaders of the
Protestant and Catholic organizations and Muslim Association of Malawi. The project has helped the
Churches accept condom use and among the Muslims, a change in practices on circumcision.
Uganda
UNAIDS Best Practice
In 1995, Islamic Medical Association of Uganda IMAU and UNICEF developed an HIV education
curriculum with 36 lessons. Facilitators cover each of these curriculums in a forty-minute session. IMAU
trains 24 supervisors and Imams, in each district. The Imams pass on their training to two Madarasa
teachers from ten different mosques during sermons, group talks, and home visits. The teachers in turn
educate the students and parents on HIV. Overall, 20,000 Muslim children have been given HIV education
in Madarasa schools since 1995.
Multiple countries
Training of Muslim and Christian leaders (from Justice M. R. Hariharan Nair, Pallium India,
Trivandrum)
HIV Regional Programme in the Arab States (HARPAS) of UNDP has conducted several workshops to
clarify facts about HIV and train religious leaders to use an HIV manual. HARPAS started regional
workshops at the request of religious leaders who had participated in the Cairo meeting in 2004. The
training participants are Muslim religious leaders from Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, and Egypt, and
Christian religious leaders from all Arab countries. The leaders have effectively raised HIV awareness
through Friday sermons among Muslims and Sunday sermons in churches.
Related Resources
Recommended Documentation
Religious taboos affect reproductive, sexual health: Experts (from Avnish Jolly, Consultant,
Chandigarh, response 1)
Manglorean.com; October 31, 2007
http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=56851
Cautions that as religion is powerful, fanaticism may not be a hindrance in the reproductive and
sexual health of women
HIV/AIDS & Gender Equality: Transforming Attitudes and Behaviors (from Farida Vahedi, India
Interfaith Coalition on HIV (IICH), New Delhi)
Bahá'í International Community Statement prepared for the United Nations General Assembly Special
Session on HIV/AIDS, New York, U.S.A.; 25-27 June 2001
http://www.bic-un.bahai.org/01-0625.htm
Faith communities with their power to influence the minds of their adherents can make a major
contribution in gender equality as well as in HIV prevention and awareness
The Most Effective Way to Raise Awareness on AIDS is Through Friday Sermons (from Justice M. R.
Hariharan Nair, Pallium India, Trivandrum)
Islamic Cultural Centre; 10 August 2005
States that as religion plays a major role in making changes in society we must engage religious
leaders in conquering the HIV epidemic
From Dr. Saka M. J., Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON), Nigeria
Working with Religious Leaders to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in Senegal
Family Health International; HIV/AIDS Collection; Case Study Eleven;
http://www.fhi.org/NR/rdonlyres/ep7ylbua2vs3yuog2fdfmtlc3bm574njpddj3yj75ngornaq65fr64tfdoc3v76k
gwp4iyybzmfqzo/BestPracticesCase11.pdf (Size: 1.05 MB)
Explores the process in Senegal to involve religious leaders in the national response to HIV and
the impact on interventions by FBOs, NGOs and the community at large
Namibia: Church Leaders Train for HIV/AIDS Battle
By Reagan Malumo and Katima Mulilo; Allafrica.com; 31 August 2007
http://allafrica.com/stories/200708310652.html
Aimed to get churches closely involved and furnished with ultimate skills and knowledge to
enhance their participation in the fight against HIV and other STIs
An Islamic Approach to the Prevention of the Spread of AIDS (from S. A. Rahim, PEN India, Tirupati)
Islamset.com
http://www.islamset.com/bioethics/aids1/approa.html
Identifies three measures recommended by Islam, as part of its moral code essential for HIV
prevention: marriage, proscription of sexual promiscuity, and deterrence
From Peter F. Borges, The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Nagpur
Engaging Faith-Based Organizations in HIV Prevention: A Training Manual for Programme
Managers
UNFPA; 2007
http://www.unfpa.org/upload/lib_pub_file/705_filename_HIVTraining%20Manual%20eng%20.pdf (Size:
4.62 MB)
Aims to encourage policy makers, programmers, and development practitioners to recognize the
factors in HIV prevention and to collaborate with FBOs to address them
Scaling up effective partnerships: A guide to working with faith-based organisations in the response
to HIV and AIDS
By Steven Lux and Kristine Greenaway; Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance
http://www.e-alliance.ch/media/media-6695.pdf (Size: 1.8 MB)
Provides background information and case studies, counteracts myths, and gives guidance to
people who want to collaborate with FBOs on joint projects related to HIV
HIV, AIDS and Islam
Positive Muslims; 2004
http://www.coreinitiative.org/Resources/Publications/HIVAIDSandIslam/HIVAidsandIslam.pdf (Size: 285
KB)
Aimed at groups interested in the issue of HIV and Islam including religious teachers, community
leaders, and staff in organizations working on or with Muslims with HIV
HIV/AIDS and Islam (from Dr. Paul Ponniah, Jeevan Sagar Trust, Bangalore)
United Nations Development Programme - Malaysia; Project Review; January 2003 - December 2005
http://www.undp.org.my/index.php?navi_id=47
Review of project for HIV awareness among religious leaders and within Muslim communities
detailing the strengths, challenges, and lessons learned in the process
HIV, AIDS and Islam (from Shafique-ur-Rahman, K. B. N. College of Engineering, Gulbarga)
Workshop manual; Positive Muslims; 2007
http://www.coreinitiative.org/Resources/Publications/CORE_PM.pdf (Size: 1.20 MB)
Manual for running workshops in Muslim communities on the theme of Muslims, Islam, and HIV
with exercises and examples of questions to ask and train Muslim Leaders
HIV and Islam: is HIV prevalence lower among Muslims? (from Waseem, Independent Consultant,
Bangalore)
By Peter B. Gray; Social Science & Medicine; Volume 58, Issue 9; May 2004
http://www.e-alliance.ch/stigmacd/docs/6.8Gray2004,HIVandIslam.doc
Relates the risk factors and Islamic religious advice to HIV prevalence to provide evidence that
following Islamic sexual codes prevents HIV and that there are positive benefits arising from
circumcision
Islam and HIV/AIDS Project (from Dr. M. M. A. Faridi, Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital, New Delhi)
http://www.jhuccp.org/africa/regional/islam.shtml
John Hopkins University; 2005
Islam and HIV project in Mauritania, Africa to educate Islamic religious leaders regarding HIV
prevention, care and support of PLHIV
From Dr. Avnish Jolly, Consultant, Chandigarh, response 2
Priests get tips on AIDS awareness
Tribune News Service; 20 September 2006
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2006/20060921/cth3.htm#2
The workshop stressed the need for a concerted effort and collective responsibility of religion,
media and community in combating HIV
Workshop on role of religious leaders in combating AIDS
Tribune News Service; 11 November 2006
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2006/20061111/cth3.htm#1
Aimed at involving religious leaders for generating awareness regarding the prevention of HIV,
reducing stigma and discrimination, as well as on providing care and support to PLHIV
Temple to double up as HIV testing lab
Chandigarh Newsline section of the Indian Express; June 15 2007
http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=241208
Describes setting up of a Charitable Laboratory and Free HIV testing at a Temple, as a result of
efforts of sensitization of religious leaders
Divine initiative: Temple spreads AIDS awareness
By Vikram Chowdhary; NDTV.com; June 16, 2007
http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20070015759
Mentions a temple where the priests spreads HIV awareness among the devotees, and encourages
people to get HIV test done before getting married
From Shivananda Khan, Naz Foundation International, Lucknow
Faith, Cultures and Sexualities
By Shivananda Khan and Arif Jafar; An internal document for the International HIV/AIDS Alliance,
Brighton, UK; October 2004
http://www.solutionexchange-un.net.in/aids/resource/res-01-091107-01.pdf (Size: 591 KB)
Details a pilot study on the impact of Islamic beliefs, traditions and customs on Muslim males who
have sex with males
A Jihad of the Heart - Faith, Cultures and Sexualities
Study Report by Arif Jafar; Naz Foundation International; February 2005
http://www.solutionexchange-un.net.in/aids/resource/res-01-091107-02.pdf (Size: 1.55 MB)
Assessment of psychosocial and religious needs of Muslim-identified MSM in South Asia to
understand their risk behaviours in the context of their sexual desires and identities
Training religious leaders in HIV/AIDS prevention and counselling (from Syed Ziaur Rahman, Ibn Sina
Academy, Aligarh)
By Asiedu K. et al; International Conference on AIDS; July 19-24 1992
http://gateway.nlm.nih.gov/MeetingAbstracts/102200512.html
Discusses a project to train religious leaders in HIV Prevention and Counselling to include it in
their existing religious programmes to produce behaviour change
Engaging faith-based organizations in HIV prevention: a training manual for programme managers
(from Arif Clinton, Labour League Foundation, New Delhi)
http://www.unfpa.org/upload/lib_pub_file/705_filename_HIVTraining%20Manual%20eng%20.pdf (Size
4.7 MB)
Capacity-building manual to help policy makers and programmers identify, design, and follow up
on HIV prevention programmes undertaken by faith-based organisations
1st HIV/AIDS ASEAN Regional Workshop of Islamic Religious Leaders (from Marcela Ruggeri,
Universidad Nacional de Cordoba, Argentina)
Declaration in the workshop held in Jakarta, November 30- December 3 1998; Association of South East
Asian Nations
http://www.aseansec.org/8569.htm
Stresses on the need for training of Muslim leaders in all ASEAN countries to enable them to play
an effective role in HIV campaign in their respective communities
Involving Religious Leaders in HIV/AIDS Prevention (from Rituu B Nanda, Research Associate)
By DK Pal et al; Indian Journal of Community Medicine; Volume 32; No. 1; January 2007-March 2007)
http://www.indmedica.com/journals.php?journalid=7&issueid=88&articleid=1221&action=article
Discusses a project, which motivated religious leaders of a district in Madhya Pradesh to deliver
HIV messages during their religious discourses
Recommended Organizations and Programmes
UNFPA (from Peter F. Borges, The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Nagpur)
53 Jor Bagh, New Delhi; Tel: 011- 24649247
http://www.unfpa.org/publications/detail.cfm?ID=337&filterListType
Has undertaken joint initiatives with FBOs to address the spread of HIV and to fight the stigma
directed towards people living with HIV
Asian-Pacific Resource & Research Centre for Women (ARROW) (from Avnish Jolly, Consultant,
Chandigarh)
No. 80 & 82, 3rd Floor, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur; Tel: 603 2273 9913;
Fax: 603 2273 9916; arrow@arrow.po.my;
http://www.arrow.org.my//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19&Itemid=41
ARROW is conducting a two-year study to analyze the impact of religious fundamentalism on
women's reproductive and sexual health
Azad India Foundation (from Yuman Hussain, Noida)
Line Mohalla, Kishanganj-855107, Bihar; Tel: 06456-222483; http://azadindia.org/azad-hind.html
Engaged in social services, child welfare services, welfare for the rural Indian woman, rural
Education, self employment and community health and nutrition including HIV
Progressio (from Jitendra Panda, Somaliland National AIDS Commission (SOLNAC), Somalia)
Unit 3 Canonbury Yard, 190a New North Road, London N1 7BJ, UK; http://www.ciir.org/
Has engaged in productive collaborations with Islamic religious groups and individuals in HIV
prevention program in Somaliland, Somalia for the last five years
The Salvation Army India (from Lal Sangpuii, Aizwal)
Flat 103, Aashirwad Complex, D-1, Green Park, New Delhi; Tel: 91-11 651 2394;
intmail@INT.salvationarmy.org;
http://www1.salvationarmy.org/ind/www_ind.nsf/vw-dynamicindex/80256E520050A2E280256C09004DF41D?openDocument
Uses religion to enter into the community to respond to the development issues like HIV with the
support of the community, the church denominations and the local NGOs
Islamic Medical Association of Uganda (from Syed Ziaur Rahman, Ibn Sina Academy, Aligarh)
P.O. Box 2773, Kampala, Uganda; Tel.: +256-41-272812; Fax: +256-41-251443;
imau@utlonline.co.ug; http://www.imau-ugandaorg/imau/index.php
Has worked with the top and grassroot Muslim leaders and trained the trainers who in turn
educate the Imams on how to address HIV issues
Islamic Research Foundation (from Raza Ahmed, Consultant, Bhopal)
56/58 Tandel Street (North), Dongri, Mumbai 400 009; Tel: 23736875; Fax: 91-22-23730689;
islam@irf.net; http://www.irf.net/irf/aboutirf/index.htm
The organization addresses the community in many national and international Muslim forums
using quotes from the Quran to disseminate messages on HIV awareness
Recommended Portals and Information Bases
Indian NGOs.com: HIV/AIDS Forum (from Tanweer Azam, Change Innovators, New Delhi)
http://www.indianngos.com/issue/hiv/islamandaids.htm
Provides the Bangladeshi and Indian experiences in training the Imams for intervening in HIV
prevention and care including References to the Quran and Ahadeeth
Esnips.com (from Omid Zamani, UNICEF, Teheran)
http://www.esnips.com/web/HIV-AIDS/
This website offers large number of articles and documents on HIV including the role of religious
leaders in HIV prevention and awareness
African Network of Religious Leaders Living with or Personally Affected by HIV and AIDS
(ANERELA+) (from Rituu B Nanda, Research Associate)
www.anerela.org
Offers resources to empower and engage religious leaders infected or affected by HIV to live as
agents of hope and change in their faith communities
Related Consolidated Replies
Roles for Faith Based Organizations, from Dr. Shantanu Dutta, Emmanuel Hospital Association,
Delhi (Advice)
Issued 22 November 2005
http://www.solutionexchange-un.net.in/aids/cr/cr-se-aids-22120603.doc
Insights on the areas where FBO involvement in HIV and AIDS responses have comparative strengths,
and where their particular ideologies and belief systems would be a handicap
From Rituu B. Nanda, Research Associate
Russia - HIV/AIDS and Religious Organisations, from Shombi Sharp, UNDP, Russia
Issued 20 October 2003; UNDP HIV-AIDS Practice Network
Workspace: http://practices.undp.org/hiv/. Primarily for UNDP staff but external subscriptions are allowed.
Contact Ela Chirileanu moderator at hivaids-net@groups.undp.org for a copy of the CR.
Provides experiences and documents on working with faith-based organizations and training them
in launching effective responses on prevention, care and support to the PLHIV
HIV/AIDS and Religious Leaders - Arab States, from Walid Badawi, RBAS, New York
Issued 24 May 2004; UNDP HIV-AIDS Practice Network
Workspace: http://practices.undp.org/hiv/. Primarily for UNDP staff but external subscriptions are allowed.
Contact Ela Chirileanu moderator at hivaids-net@groups.undp.org for a copy of the CR
Identifies ways and best practices in which the religious groups can be involved, such as
addressing stigma and discrimination, care and support of PLHIV and orphans
Working with Faith Based Organisations, from Iva Jovovic, UNDP, Croatia
Issued 7 July 2007; UNDP HIV-AIDS Practice Network
Workspace: http://practices.undp.org/hiv/. Primarily for UNDP staff but external subscriptions are allowed.
Contact Ela Chirileanu moderator at hivaids-net@groups.undp.org for a copy of the CR
Describes issues for needs assessment questionnaire within the Muslim community with the aim to
design a HIV preventive programme for the Muslim faith communities
Responses in Full
V. Nandhini, Amity Humanity Foundation, Noida (response 1)
Greetings of Peace. It is indeed great to know about your interest in involving Islamic Religious Leaders in
HIV programs. We have been conducting such training programs through out the country and especially in
Coimbatore. We had training in Coimbatore where we involved Imam and his congregation, which was
very successful.
Now I am placed in Delhi and at present we are involved in ''Project Prathibha" where we are involving
Women of Faith, that is Women representatives from Faith Based Organizations. We all know that Women
in Christian Organizations are in the forefront in giving care and support for the terminally ill patients as
well as in carrying forward the prevention programs. However, it is also true that there is an under
representation of women representing Faith Based Organizations when it comes to training and
involvement in such a forum. As for as HIV care is concerned they lack professional training and
awareness. In our course of action we found out that, they are very much willing to under go such training.
We also found out this urge among women from other religions also. Muslim women doing their doctorates
in various social issues showed interest in this.
Under this project we have brought out a module to train Religious Leaders in HIV prevention and Care
support.
Pushpa Patel, EKTA Yuvak Mandal, Surat
EKTA Yuvak Mandal, Surat is implementing an HIV prevention program in Salabatpura, Textile Market
and Limbayat areas, which are the areas where there are Muslim communities. Our Trustees are also from
the Muslim community and Muslim Leadership. We are also implementing an Information Communication
Technology Centre (ICTC) Project funded by UNDP, OSACS and GSACS for migrants from Orissa. Our
experience is that interventions through Muslim leaders are not a very easy task. However with some
perseverance it is also possible to achieve many things. For example, after three years of work without
taking any funds form government or funding agencies, we have got positive results. Today, some of our
Muslim leaders including "Maullanas" are involved in condom promotion and distribution channels.
Avnish Jolly, Consultant, Chandigarh (response 1)
Appended is a report from a session in the 4th Asia Pacific Conference on Reproductive and Sexual Health
and Rights (APCRSH).
Religious taboos affect reproductive, sexual health: Experts
http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=56851
Hyderabad, Oct 31: From treating menstruation like a taboo to shunning abortion, religious fundamentalism
can seriously affect the reproductive and sexual health of women, opined experts on the second day of a
conference here. "Whether it is Hindu, Muslim, Catholic or any other kind of fundamentalism, it especially
affects the women community at large," said Jasodhara Dasgupta of Sahyog, an NGO in India. She spoke
about Hindu fundamentalism at the ongoing 4th Asia Pacific Conference on Reproductive and Sexual
Health and Rights (APCRSH).
"A woman's body is considered as the site of community and family honour. Talking about religious
fundamentalism, a woman's body is supposed to be guarded for the sake of family honour and in order to
punish the other community, their women can be violated against," Dasgupta said. Dasgupta said
fundamentalists opposed a woman's right to choose her sexual partner. They believe that sex education, the
right to be aware of issues that can cost one's life, is against Indian culture. "The concepts of
fundamentalists are weird. They see abortion as foeticide. They don't think that a woman has the right to
choose whether she is ready for a child or not. "In the same breath they don't do much in preventing the
hordes of female foeticide that go on in front of their eyes," she said. Menstruation is again a time when a
woman is made to feel like an untouchable, bound by different rules like not being allowed to enter the
kitchen, she noted. "When the movie 'Water' showed the condition of Indian widows, who were sexually
exploited but not allowed to re-marry, the fundamentalists fiercely opposed it.
That's because truth stings," Dasgupta remarked.
Zaitun Mohammad Kasim of Malaysia spoke about Muslim fundamentalism, while Junice Melgar of the
Phillipines talked about Catholic fundamentalism, and both stressed on abortion being considered a sin in
their communities. "Wife beating, oppression of women is seen as legitimate in the purview of religious
fundamentalism. This pushes women into believing that they are meek beings with no right whatsoever in
voicing their opinion and discussing their problems. "Contraception is considered un-religious. Even if this
means that the health of the woman has completely deteriorated because of repeated child births and the
family simply can't support so many children," Kasim said. Kasim also said that HIV is often tied up with
morality, thus discouraging people from coming out and talking about HIV/AIDS openly. Participants at
the conference also discussed how transsexuals and transgenders were shunned by religious
fundamentalists. Kasim, while quoting an example, said if a transsexual is arrested in Malaysia, he has to
pay $7-14 as compensation. But if the person is a Muslim, then the compensation amount increases to
$200-800! "So you see the kind of discrimination in the name of religious fundamentalism."
Kalpana Kannabiran of the NALSAR law university, India, said that some of the most drastic effects of
religious fundamentalism could be seen in the pages of history. "Whether you talk about the India-Pakistan
Partition in 1947 or the 2002 Gujarat riots, women were harassed to no end. Men raped and murdered
women from other communities brutally, considering it a sign of victory since the other community's
honour was taken away. "And the saddest thing is that none of these stories, of women suffering, surface.
For instance, in the 2002 Gujarat riots, hundreds of women were raped and sometimes killed, but only one
case till date is being fought in the court," Kannabiran said.
Earlier in the day, Minister for Women and Child Development Renuka Chowdhury stressed that religious
leaders could play an important role in spreading awareness about reproductive and sexual health and
rights. "This is because religion can be more powerful than law at times," she said.
Asian Pacific Resource and Research Centre for Women (ARROW), a Malaysia-based organization that
led the discussion, will be conducting a two-year study to analyze the impact of religious fundamentalism
on women's reproductive and sexual health. The study will be conducted in 12 countries, including India,
Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh.
Tanweer Azam, Change Innovators, New Delhi
It is very heart warming to know that Muslim population is also coming up take issues like HIV head on.
Muslims are always considered a little backward on these issues. Though a myth, it is a well placed one.
Hence, efforts like this will definitely break this myth and bring the Muslim population to the forefront. So,
I am very pleased to know about this initiative.
http://www.indianngos.com/issue/hiv/islamandaids.htm gives us the Bangladeshi and the Indian
experiences and the issues involved in training the Imams for intervening in HIV prevention and care.
References to the Quran and Ahadeeth are mentioned too.
Farida Vahedi, India Interfaith Coalition on HIV (IICH), New Delhi
India Interfaith Coalition on HIV (IICH) has been constituted with the objective of the involvement of
religious leadership for prevention, removal of stigma and to provide care of the people affected and
infected by HIV. IICH had submitted a proposal to NACO for the holding of training programs for
religious leadership and their volunteers on this issue. At this stage IICH is compiling the list of thirty-five
religious leaders from different Faith communities to be invited for a consultation with NACO. We
therefore would like to also receive from you the name and contact details of the Islamic Religious leaders
in Kerala so that we can include their names as well on the list.
The Bahá’í International Community’s policy paper on HIV prevention mentions two major issues to be
addressed. Please see http://www.bic-un.bahai.org/01-0625.htm for full text and details. One of the issues is
the involvement of leaders of Faith. They are the ones who can encourage a re-orientation to spiritual
values in the community. They are the ones who must avoid and condemn judgmental behaviour towards
the people affected by HIV and remove the stigma. The second concern which is of equal importance is
addressing the gender issues. Without any doubt, the treatment of women, the attitudes towards women, the
lack of education of girls and women, violence towards women and so on - all these all play a part in the
behaviours that spread HIV, including the lack of knowledge about the infection and how to be tested and
treated. The active involvement of boys and men in this process is very important too.
Yuman Hussain, Azad India Foundation, Noida
We implemented an Innovation Fund (INP+) supported project namely, "Sensitization of Muslim religious
leaders on HIV in two blocks of Kishanganj district, Bihar", which ended this year in August. Our target
was to sensitize 500 religious leaders in Pothia and Kishanganj block. As you must be aware Kishanganj is
a predominantly Muslim dominated area where religious leaders hold considerable control over the
community members.
We selected 10 most vocal Maulanas and gave them intensive training on all aspects related to HIV and
AIDS and they further conducted workshops with Maulavis and Madarasa teachers. The training was given
by Dr. Diwakar Tejaswi who is the Medical Director of RATNEI in Patna. Moreover, we did the monthly
training and orientation workshops to remove their doubts and fear. We used the training modules
developed by RATNEI and the Bihar AIDS Control Society and printed the material in Urdu also.
We covered 213 Madarasas and Masjids and sensitized over 1000 religious leaders. It was difficult
convincing the project team of ten Maulanas but once they were convinced that they are doing a great
service to humanity they did their work very confidently talking openly about HIV in religious gatherings,
community meetings, and even in coaching centers. They used to carry the pamphlets and other informative
material all the time in their bags. They have counseled more than 275 people for VCTC and in some cases
even spent money from their own pockets to take people for test at Kishanganj. We detected five fullblown AIDS cases who unfortunately have since then died. Due to efforts of these religious leaders the
patients and PLHIV got support and care from their families in their last days.
The impact of religious leaders is seen by the fact that many more religious leaders came forward and
wanted us to extend the program in other blocks of Kishanganj, which we are unable to do so for lack of
funds.
Justice M. R. Hariharan Nair, Pallium India, Trivandrum
The initiative from Dr. Nabeel is commendable. Let this be the starting point. In due course there could be
similar efforts through all religious groups and that certainly will go a long way in educating the masses of
India.
http://www.iccservices.org.uk/news_and_events/sex_health_aids/most_effective_way_to_raise_awareness_
on_aids_is_through_friday_sermons.htm is the URL of a web page hosted by The Islamic Cultural Centre
(ICC), London, with a title that reads as, "THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO RAISE AWARENESS ON
AIDS IS THROUGH FRIDAY SERMONS". We could take a leaf or two from the experiences mentioned
in implementing some of the strategies and activities, which are relevant to our Indian context.
Dr. Saka M. J., Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON), Nigeria
Thanks for this query. Working with faith based is the best way we can drive in the messages to the grass
root level. From experience with the faith-based organization that was part of my project in Nigeria, I could
say this strategy worked best. How we did it was very simple. We identified consistency in faith-based
organizations with the Strength, Weakness, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) analysis. We had to be very
careful. The fact whether they can speak English or the vernacular must not be major criteria. The most
important is the commitment. Do not attack positively or negatively, directly or indirectly the principle of
worship. Do respect them and their religions. Also, do not take a preference for a particular religion. Let
them see you are impartial and dealing with issues objectively.
Please look at web site for FHI where there are many publications on religion and HIV. One of them is:
http://www.fhi.org/NR/rdonlyres/ep7ylbua2vs3yuog2fdfmtlc3bm574njpddj3yj75ngornaq65fr64tfdoc3v76k
gwp4iyybzmfqzo/BestPracticesCase11.pdf
It is titled, "WORKING WITH RELIGIOUS LEADERS TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF HIV/AIDS IN
SENEGAL".
Also take a look at a news report at http://allafrica.com/stories/200708310652.html which has a headline
called, "Namibia: Church Leaders Train for HIV/AIDS Battle".
Farrukh Rahman Khan, Find Your Feet-India Office, Lucknow
The initiative is indeed commendable. Well in Uttar Pradesh and other northern states several agencies
have successfully engaged Muslim religious leaders and Imams towards campaign against Polio. Instances
of institutions engaging these important stakeholders towards HIV awareness and prevention have rarely
been found. However, it may be of your interest to know that in a prominent mosque at Kapurthala,
Lucknow a group of religious leaders like Maulana Yahya Nomani and enlightened youth congregate every
Sunday morning to discuss issues of human development including HIV, STI, AIDS with Islamic
perspective. It would be relevant to seek their opinion and experiences. For further details I would like to
suggest that you contact Mr. Azam Khan, his phone number being 91-9452464967, or you can send your
queries to me on my e-mail id frkhan2006@gmail.com for him since Mr. Azam does not have an e-mail
account.
S. A. Rahim, PEN India, Tirupati
Your suggestion to get involve the Islamic Religious Leaders in HIV related actions Programs are very fine
and it is required initiative. You may find it difficult initially but it is possible and it will have good impact.
I suggest that you can use web pages like http://www.islamset.com/bioethics/aids1/approa.html from which
is I quote: "Because of the wide following and position of leadership in the community, religious leaders
and congregations have a vital role to play in educating the public about AIDS and encouraging
compassion for those affected by the epidemic." Similarly involving all faith related Social Workers from
other Religions also can be done. If required we can try for this in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and other
states.
Omid Zamani, UNICEF, Teheran
The Shiite religious leaders guide on response to HIV is available for public use. It is a breakthrough in
HIV communication in Iran, thanks to the author Dr. Hessam Ashena and all others who contributed to this
publication. You can download a copy from this link http://www.esnips.com/web/HIV-AIDS/ Hard copies
are ready for pick up at UNICEF, Teheran.
Raza Ahmed, Consultant, Bhopal
It is great to know that Muslim community is also getting involved in this process. One thing I would like
to mention here is, you can take help from Islamic Research Foundation to float HIV massages among the
Muslim community. Dr. Zakir Naik who heads this foundation addresses the community in many national
and international forums and has the largest number of Muslims following his speeches, as he quotes
extensively and verbatim from the Holy Quran in his speeches. It would be nice if you could search for
persons like this who are listened to and who have the majority following them, in addition to focusing on
Maulanas and other Muslim leaders and scholars. Quotations from the Glorious Quran would help a lot in
any training organized for the Muslim community, leaders and Scholars. There is a complete chapter in the
Holy Quran stating about the relationship between man and woman.
Peter F. Borges, The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Nagpur
I am happy that Dr. Nabeel has initiated a discussion on Solution Exchange regarding Islamic Religious
Leaders and HIV. I am a firm believer that religion's efforts are crucial to combat HIV, whether it is
prevention, care and support or advocacy. I am happy to know that in our country, various religious groups
have come forward to fight HIV. UN agencies like UNFPA, UNICEF, UNAIDS and also USAID has been
complementing the efforts of FBOs.
I
would
like
the
readers
to
go
through
some
publications
like
http://www.unfpa.org/publications/detail.cfm?ID=337&filterListType
This publication clearly points out why FBOs should be engaged in HIV work. Secondly, http://www.ealliance.ch/hiv_faith_guide.jsp by Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance defines how to engage faith-based
organization. This publications point out how FBOs should work, irrespective of any religion.
I am eager to know the strategic plan of NACO, SACS, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNAIDS AND USAID for
FBOs in the third phase of the National AIDS Control Program. The plan of how FBOs will be involved in
the whole phase could help various FBOs already working to plan in an effective manner. An effort should
be made by agencies to bring together FBOs on a common platform through a National Consultation to
learn from each other and involve more and more FBOs into the work of HIV. FBOs need to be educated
about the need for such initiative and the program. They need to be give "boost" and only then something
pragmatic will happen.
Training modules available:
Training guide for religious leaders on Islam and HIV
Language: Arabic
Producers: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs
(CCP), SFPS, USAID, Stop SIDA (Mauritania)
Contact Name: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs
(CCP)
Can be downloaded with permission: http://db.jhuccp.org/mmc/media/trmaa3.pdf
HIV, AIDS and Islam – Reflections based on compassion, responsibility and justice Language: English
Producer: Positive Muslims with support from Core initiative
Contact name: Core initiative,
Can be downloaded with permission
http://www.coreinitiative.org/Resources/Publications/HIVAIDSandIslam/HIVAidsandIslam.pdf
Jitendra Panda, Somaliland National AIDS Commission (SOLNAC), Somalia
Here are some of my experiences of working with faith-based organizations and Islamic leaders in HIV
prevention and control program in Somaliland. Hope these insights might be useful in planning and
initiating a successful HIV intervention with Islamic leaders and FBOs in India.
Experience in conducting HIV intervention programs through FBOs:
Progressio, an international NGO, has been engaging with Islamic religious groups and individuals in HIV
prevention program in Somaliland, Somalia for the last five years. Our experience in working with the
Somaliland National AIDS Commission (SOLNAC), civil society organizations and religious groups on
HIV prevention and control has been very productive.
Majority that is about 99 percent of the people in Somaliland adhere to the Islamic religion and religion
plays a pivotal role in the people’s culture, behaviour and the way they interact with others. Islamic leaders,
both in the community and institutions have the unique ability to mobilize and influence the populace than
any other institutions including Government.
Progressio’s engagement with religious leaders like Sheikhs and Imams, and religious institutions like the
national Da’awah Group, Ministry of Religion, FBOs, Faculty of Islamic Studies at the University of
Hargeisa and similar faculties in other universities, and other groups including mobile preachers has been
in the area of education, communication, mass mobilization, advocacy, policy implementation, membership
with National AIDS Commission, regional AIDS committees and with different working groups like
communication and social mobilization. One of the selected Islamic leaders represents the faith-based
organizations to the National AIDS Commission where he contributes in policy formulation, review,
budgeting and other stigma reduction initiatives.
The Faculty of Islamic studies at the University of Hargeisa in consultation with prominent Islamic leaders
has been involved in designing HIV prevention messages and strategy to involve sheikhs and Imams at the
community level in education and imparting information. Strategies include involving the Imams who have
been sensitized on the issues of HIV giving sermons during Friday prayer congregations; home visits by the
Imams and Sheikhs, preaching in public places and other gatherings. The issues they tackle include stigma
reduction, role of family in HIV prevention, how to live according to the Holy Quran. Verses from the
Glorious Quran are quoted and explained both in Arabic and Somali to address the issues pertaining to
sexuality, faithfulness, respect, care, orphans and vulnerable children (OVC), people with disability and so
on. This also contributes in the designing of national HIV prevention programs, stigma reduction and care
strategies.
While designing any IEC materials it is also mandatory for the communication working group of the
National AIDS Commission to share the materials with the religious groups and their leaders to ensure that
the messages are according to and sensitive to the Islamic faith as well as to the beliefs of the local Somali
community.
Various NGOs have involved mobile religious groups like street preachers in their prevention education
campaigns. For example, the Somaliland HIV and AIDS Network (SAHAN), which brings together all
civil society organizations active in the HIV arena, has been sensitizing Imams with messages on the
pandemic so that they can impart the information to the faithful Muslims. While publishing newsletters,
pamphlets, posters, billboards, posters or stickers on HIV, NGOs have found it imperative to involve
Islamic clerics in the formulation of the messages on HIV prevention and control for effective audience
targeting.
Regular meeting with religious leaders and groups helps in discussion and designing various HIV
prevention activities. Training to religious leaders in HIV prevention and control by the Islamic training
groups has had a good impact on the leaders and their work in HIV. Some organizations have also
organized exposure visits to other countries to learn more on HIV control activities.
Measures to ensure confidence and sustained patronage of religious leaders:
Formation of Islamic leaders’ group or forum and providing them with technical and managerial support is
one strategy that Progressio has undertaken to ensure its involvement and long-term commitment in
tackling the HIV epidemic in Somaliland.
Involvement of religious leader's groups in different committees and institutions like National AIDS
Commission, Regional AIDS Committees, working groups, can ensure their meaningful participation and
involvement. Participation of religious leaders in the national and regional training programmes.
Capacity building and support of FBOs and link them for external funding including Government funding
sources also helps in financing their activities.
Lal Sangpuii, Salvation Army, Aizwal
Here is an approach adopted by us in the Salvation Army's Community Health Action Network (CHAN) to
counter the HIV epidemic and other social ills in the pre-dominantly Christian communities of Mizoram.
Hope it answers your question. If not we are open to helping you. International Statement of the Salvation
Army: The Salvation Army, an International movement is an evangelical part of universal Christian
Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by love of God. Its mission is to preach
the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in his name without discrimination. As we have seen in
the last part of the mission statement, the main activity of the Salvation Army worldwide is to meet human
needs in the name of Jesus Christ without discrimination. That is why people use to say that? Where there
is need, there is Salvation Army? This kind of activity is one of the entry points to the community most
used by the Salvation Army. Mizoram is one of the Christian states in India, with 90% of its population
being Christians. As Christians, we are always reminded and want to do good for the community. In
addition, every community is well organized under village Council. Also, every community wishes and
works for its own development. Hence, for us it is easy to enter into the community to respond to the social
issues with the support of the community, the church denomination and the local NGOs. With best regards
and wishing you the best in your work.
Dr. Paul Ponniah, Jeevan Sagar Trust, Bangalore
It is interesting to note that Muslims are taking up HIV awareness and care programs. I understand that
Muslim community will take the challenges to prevent this dreaded disease because of strong in-built
understanding within its followers. Communication form mouth to mouth is strong advocacy and highly
influential within the community and outside. Continue to carry on with a war footing. Best is to devise
plans and strategies with the community leaders as in the example from UNDP Malaysia.
http://www.undp.org.my/index.php?navi_id=47 details UNDP Malaysia's project on HIV and Islam (Jan
2003 - Dec 2005) giving the objectives for increasing awareness of HIV among religious leaders and within
Muslim communities; http://www.undp.org.my/index.php?navi_id=232 gives the whole project review
with Strengths, Challenges, Lessons Learned and Future Considerations.
Shafique-ur-Rahman, K. B. N. College of Engineering, Gulbarga
At http://www.coreinitiative.org/Resources/Publications/CORE_PM.pdf is a training manual called, 'HIV,
AIDS and Islam, A Workshop Manual Based on Compassion, Responsibility and Justice', produced by
Positive Muslims, South Africa, USAID and CORE. It is a new and useful resource on working with
Muslim Leaders. It contains possible exercises to conduct in workshop settings and examples of questions
to ask and train Muslim Leaders.
Waseem, Independent Consultant, Bangalore
At http://www.e-alliance.ch/stigmacd/docs/6.8Gray2004,HIVandIslam.doc is a study by Peter B. Gray:
HIV and Islam: is HIV prevalence lower among Muslims? in Social Science & Medicine, Volume 58, Issue
9, May 2004, Pages 1751-1756
A quote of the first and last line of it's Conclusion is: "The hypothesis that Islamic religious affiliation is
negatively associated with HIV seropositivity is generally supported...Future discussions of the predicted
course of the global HIV epidemic may consider Islamic religious affiliation as a socio-demographic factor
associated with a reduced risk of HIV transmission."
Hence, this study could be used to motivate religious leaders and Imams, that their propagation of Islamic
practices per se has been proved to reduce HIV spread. Moreover as suggested by the author, all those who
are working for reducing the spread of HIV right from policy makers to the grassroots' workers, 'consider
Islamic religious affiliation' as an effective tool to reduce HIV transmission.
Dr. M. M. A. Faridi, Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital, New Delhi
You deserve all praise. Please keep interacting with Muslims and their leaders. It is so important in Gujarat.
Your efforts may be modest and success limited but it is the need of the hour. It will not only bring them in
the main stream but also open them up for new ideas. Then they will participate in full swing. Islam has
thrown very bold and progressive ideas 1425 years ago; some of them modern civilization adopted very
late. Muslims need to be reminded of all that.
http://www.jhuccp.org/africa/regional/islam.shtml gives details of the John Hopkins Islam and HIV project
in Mauritania, Africa where the main objective was to 'Educate Islamic religious leaders in IPC/C and BCC
regarding HIV/AIDS prevention and care and support of PLHIV'.
Dr. Avnish Jolly, Consultant, Chandigarh (response 2)
It is great to know about your concern in involving Islamic Religious Leaders in HIV programs. In different
activities we have involved the Imam and his congregation. This was done very successfully during my
school and college days. Last year Chandigarh Doordarshan telecasted the documentary on 'Role of FBOs
for reducing Stigma and Discrimination with PLHIV’, which was facilitated by Ms. Deepty. This
documentary was shown many times in Chandigarh. In this documentary Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and
Christen priests participated along with PLHIV. So, thanks to Dr. Nabeel, who by emphasizing this issue
related with FBOs on this mailing list, is helping me to recount my experiences.
After the Visioning Workshop of the AIDS Community last year in September 2006, I organized an
orientation workshop for capacity building of Catholic Priests at the Catholic Church, Sector 19, by the
Chandigarh - Shimla Diocese, called, “The Role of Religion, Media and Community in Combating
HIV/AIDS” on 20th September, 2006 under the guidance of Bishop. Please see the news item on Tribune
News Service at http://www.tribuneindia.com/2006/20060921/cth3.htm#2
with a title, 'Priests get tips on AIDS awareness'. In this workshop more than 45 priests working at 80
churches started different AIDS Awareness programmes. They could add relevant skills on HIV to their
existing knowledge and are rendering their services in Bathinda, Patiala, Chandigarh, Shimla and Karnal.
The tools they used for spreading HIV awareness include street plays, puppetry shows and community
songs along with rallies. I still get feedback from many of the priests as well as queries regularly on the
availability of services mainly their care and support at Chandigarh for which they wanted to refer PLHIV
After this workshop I facilitated A one day Sensitization Workshop on, 'Role of Faith Building
Organizations (FBOs) in Combating HIV/AIDS’ which was held on November 10, 2006, Friday, at
Gurdawara Sahib, Village Khuda Jassu, Chandigarh by the State AIDS Control Society, Union Territory of
Chandigarh in collaboration with Sports and Welfare Club, Khuda Lahora (affiliated with NYK) under the
aegis of Ministry of Youth Welfare and Sports, Government of India. Please see for more details the link
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2006/20061111/cth3.htm#1 which is on Tribune News Service with the
headline 'Workshop on role of religious leaders in combating AIDS'. The same report is available also at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/loveandaids/message/4461 but you need a subscription to the e-group
'loveandaids' to access this page. Around 45 Sikh priests participated in this workshop and started spreading
the message on different health issues and organized Blood Donation Camp on World AIDS day – 2006 at
Gurdawara Sahib, Village Khuda Jassu.
Subsequently I also facilitated a one day Sensitization Workshop on Stressing upon the role of Pujaris in
combating HIV which was held on 29th January, 2007 at Guga Mari Temple in Sector 20, Chandigarh by
State AIDS Control Society, U. T. Chandigarh in collaboration with Guga Mari Temple Trust, Sector 20,
Chandigarh. A report of it is at http://www.tribuneindia.com/2007/20070130/cth1.htm#6 with the headline,
'Pandits to spread AIDS awareness' of the Tribune News Service web site. Around 50 Hindu priests
participated in this workshop and started spreading awareness on HIV. The most valuable initiative they
had taken was to start a Charitable Laboratory and Free HIV testing at a Temple in June 2007 without any
finical support. Two Lab technicians Haseen and Ashwani are rendering their services regularly. A report
on this is titled, 'Temple to double up as HIV testing lab', which can be seen at
http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=241208 in the Chandigarh Newsline section of the
Indian Express.
In Chandigarh a Temple priest urging devotees to go for HIV test before marriage was in the news with a
caption
that
read,
'Divine
initiative:
Temple
spreads
AIDS
awareness' seen
at
http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20070015759
All these efforts are fruitful only because of regular interaction with Priests and paying them visits and due
respect. In addition, it is essential to participate in their activities regularly. Technical support, monitoring
and resource management are also very important components. The emotional, social, and personal
interaction also plays a very important role. These provide me the free space to organize Health awareness
activity in the temple along with supplying food and other benefits also. All the Holy Books and
commentaries guide and preach to us about community services. Reaching the unreached through selfless
service to mankind is the very soul of every religion. Continuous activities with Faith Building
Organizations guide us towards implementation of these different activities.
There are many manuals and textbooks that are available but strong motivation and will is required to
support the projects. Many FBOs are not only serving but also providing substantial inputs which are
showing results in the community. Being a student of Ayurveda, I personally feel advocacy of a healthy life
style through FBOs is a very important initiative and community has leaders of FBOs. We must channelise
Faith Building Organizations for sustainable development of the community.
Thanks once again, Dr. Nabeel for advocating this issue on our mailing lists. Also, hoping for more
orientation and guidance from Solution Exchange to strengthen our community work.
Shivananda Khan, Naz Foundation International, Lucknow
What I wanted to ask in regard to the Islam and HIV is the question of working with marginalized groups
in Muslim communities or countries, such as MSM, female sex workers and injecting drug users who are
also Muslims. So, I am putting up two reports we have done with Alliance support on Muslim MSM:
http://www.solutionexchange-un.net.in/aids/resource/res-01-091107-01.pdf has a 2004
document titled, "A Glimpse Of The Beloved - Faith, Cultures and Sexualities". It details a pilot study on
the impact of Islamic belief, traditions and customs on Muslim males who have sex with males.
At http://www.solutionexchange-un.net.in/aids/resource/res-01-091107-02.pdf is the 2005 version of the
study with the title, "A Jihad of the Heart - Faith, Cultures and Sexualities".
The work we have done in Pakistan is not around being a Muslim, but focusing on MSM and HIV in that
country. Also, thanks to Dr. Nabeel for this query.
Syed Ziaur Rahman, Ibn Sina Academy, Aligarh
AIDS is a modern era disease creating havoc all over the globe. It is affecting people of all walks of life
irrespective of religion, caste and creed. Muslims are not far behind in tackling this dreaded disease. Islam
teaches equality and preaches respect of all religions. All Islamic scholars understand these basic facts and
hence must not have any hitch in raising a positive approach and mainstreaming the response to HIV in the
society. They should also come forward for support and care of the PLHIV in addition to the work in HIV
prevention. It is unfortunate that Muslims have not played an active role in care and support in any disease.
Not many Muslims opt for nursing as profession. It is an irony that in spite of teachings of Islam, this
concept of compassion and help is not coming in the minds of Muslims in general. If any Islamic religious
leader is adamant due to his bias, then he must be trained. There is no doubt they can play a positive role to
influence the Muslim community at large. Both Madrassah schools and Friday sermon or khutba before
Namaz may definitely help in changing the mind of the Muslims.
It’s a good idea if a project to train religious leaders and scholars is undertaken. Moderate Muslim
educationalists especially theology teachers may engage in this purpose. Professors of Aligarh Muslim
University, Aligarh, can help in this regard. Whenever, we organize any program through our AIDS Cell,
Ibn Sinā Academy of Medieval Medicine & Sciences (Aligarh), either on World AIDS Day or at any other
occasion, these teachers not only come but also participate in the deliberations. Muslims of Unani system
of medicine (Greek-o-Arab) with a background of madrasah education may also be engaged for this task.
Unani Medicine is a comprehensive healing system based on scientific data. The main lacuna is the
communication gap between the modern and these traditional practices. Traditional practitioners
particularly of Unani Medicine should be offered training for counselling, care and support of PLHIV.
http://gateway.nlm.nih.gov/MeetingAbstracts/102200512.html gives an abstract on, "Training religious
leaders in HIV/AIDS prevention and counselling", by Asiedu K, Souder M, Domatob A. which was
presented in the Int Conf AIDS. 1992 Jul 19-24; 8: D435 (abstract no. PoD 5290). It provides details from
the
Project
HOPE/AIDS
Sec,
MOH,
Lilongwe,
Malawi.
While,
https://repository.berkleycenter.georgetown.edu/RD-20020000-IMAU-Information.pdf gives details of the
work done by the Islamic Medical Association of Uganda in the area of HIV.
Sarwat Hussain Naqvi, Access Development Services (CARE India), Raipur
My experience of working with Faith Based Organizations is that if we really want to have sustained
patronage of religious leaders into our program we must involve ourselves in actively engaging and training
the Islamic Religious leadership especially in the areas of care, support, and stigma reduction.
We really need to consider the "Actors and Factors" to influence the Islamic Religious leadership in order
to make them understand the magnitude and severity of the disease. The present day influences on religious
practices and traditions could form part of awareness generation program for Muslims to make the future
generation free from HIV pandemic. If you quote few examples from the "HADITH" and the holy "Quran",
providing solutions to the situations thrown up by modern lifestyle's it will definitely make a difference,
because of its applicability. Hence, for IEC or BCC we take the support of ABC (Abstinence, Be faithful,
Correct and Consistent use of Condom) so "A" is already there "INNLAH MAA SABREEN" which means
Almighty God is with them who believes in patience.
Also, the growing evidence that circumcision provides protection from STI and HIV cannot be ignored.
Circumcision is a practice from as early as the times of Prophet Abraham and Prophet Moses, though only
a few years ago it has dawned on the scientific community to verify objectively this tradition. Hence, while
trying to mobilize the Islamic Religious leadership we must refer to those religious customs which has
lately been validated by accepted scientific studies and which apart from being of relevance is convincing
to both the religious-minded as well as the men of science.
Arif Clinton, Labour League Foundation, New Delhi
Islam is guidance for the whole of mankind. We must be careful and follow its guidance lifelong. Living
according to the Holy Quran guidelines is possible in any type of modern life wherever we are on the globe
as the solutions it provides is for all the nations in the world.
http://www.unfpa.org/upload/lib_pub_file/705_filename_HIVTraining%20Manual%20eng%20.pdf
provides a resource called, "Engaging faith-based organizations in HIV prevention: a training manual for
programme managers". The blurb of it at http://www.eldis.org/go/display&type=Document&id=33349
states: 'The manual explores how religious values and the power of religious leaders to mobilize
communities can be used to design effective and sustainable community programmes to address HIV. It
explains how to involve religious leaders in programmes to eliminate the stigma and discrimination often
directed to people living with HIV and how to encourage community support and solidarity using the
compassionate spirit of religion. It also outlines the key HIV prevention messages that religious leaders can
promote and the skills they need to deliver them effectively.'
Marcela Ruggeri, Universidad Nacional de Cordoba, Argentina
That is very nice and pretty what is advised by the members of this forum. It does not give much room to
broaden the scope for our work beyond the religious leaders into the community. Please visit my web page
at: http://buenavistaclubsocial.spaces.live.com/ [Page is in Spanish]. http://www.aseansec.org/8569.htm
gives the Declaration from the 1st HIV/AIDS ASEAN Regional Workshop of Islamic Religious Leaders,
held in Jakarta, November 30, to December 3, 1998.
V. Nandhini, Amity Humanity Foundation, Noida (response 2)
Greetings of Peace from Amity Humanity Foundation
Under The Prathiba initiative, activities being undertaken have the broad goal of eradicating stigma and
discrimination towards people living with HIV by providing compassion and informed-care. It also aims at
engaging 'Women of Faith' to address the broad issue of Women's Empowerment.
Overcoming HIV and the stigma that fuels it, is one of the most serious challenges today. It requires
courage, commitment and leadership at all levels especially among Faith Based Organization and Religious
Leaders. Faith Based Organization has always played a vital role in promoting health and providing relief
for the marginalized sections of the society. Faith traditions can today play an important role in prevention
and control of HIV.
To mobilize women of faith and their leadership, build their capacities and provide them support to find
locally appropriate solutions, Shanti Ashram and Amity Humanity Foundation has organized a Workshop
for Women of Faith on 21st and 22nd November 2007 at Baha'i House, Delhi, where we expect
representatives from major religions to take part. We also expect Women journalists and Scholars from
various Faiths. I will be extremely happy to welcome Women members from solution exchange to
participate and share their experiences.
Dr. Zulfiker Ali, Iqraa Foundation and Medical College, Kannur
Regarding the discussion Islamic Religious Leaders and HIV, the role of Faith Based Organizations (FBO),
in prevention and Care of HIV is of vital importance. Muslim society in most parts of the world is away
from the main stream and marginalization of the community is a common phenomenon, as they are beyond
the reach of most of the scheduled programs. Schematic approach is needed in sensitization of Muslim
community towards HIV.
I. SCHOLASTIC LEVEL: The first and foremost, the heath care team has to convince the Muslim
Scholars namely the Ulema and Umera the name for Islamic scholars and Religious leaders, on the impact
of HIV-AIDS in the community. The easiest to way for convincing them is to go through the religious
doctrines approved by them. They include: The Noble Qur'an, Hadith Shereef- teachings of Prophet
Muhammad, Ijma'- the scholarly unity on the issue, Qiyas- equalization of issues with current contest
1. The Noble Qur'an: Following verses of the Noble Qur'an can be quoted with this issue
1. Successful indeed are the believers.
2. Those who offer their Salât (prayers) with all solemnity and full submissivenes
3. And those who guard their chastity (private parts, from illegal sexual acts)
4. Except from their wives or (the captives and slaves) that their right hands possess, for then, they are free
from blame;
5. But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors;
6. Those who are faithfully true to their Amanât (all the duties which Allah has ordained, honesty, moral
responsibility and trusts etc.) and to their covenants;
Qur'an.23- 1-8; Also 24:30-31 and 60:10-12
2. Hadith Shereef- teachings of Prophet Muhammad: The quoting from Hadith like, the spread of newer
communicable diseases by irresponsible sexual behavior to be mentioned. A lot of religious quoting is
available on marriage, proscription of sexual promiscuity, and effective deterrence, adultery, prostitution,
immoral sexual acts, sodomy and homosexuality.
3. Ijma'- the scholarly unity on the issue: The scholarly opinions of Imam Nawawi, imam Gazzali, Sheikh
ul Islam Ibn thaimia can be referred
4. Qiyas- equalization of issues with current contest: The issues of step by step prohibition of prostitution
may be quoted
II. COMMUNITY LEVEL: Sensitization of Muslim scholars can be done by the people who respect and
interact with each other. In Kerala, there are Qualified Medical Practitioners who serve as Religious leaders
and even they are leading Friday sermon and all other Islamic activities. These doctors can be utilized as a
bridge between the public health care system and the Muslim community. I had a personal experience on
this issue, when I attended a program conducted by Indian Ahle Hadith- Delhi. I had to present a paper on
the development of Muslim community in Kerala. There were a good gathering of scholars from Delhi,
U.P, Bihar and other areas of North India. I concentrated the public health achievements of Kerala through
Immunization and Family welfare. Then the whole Ulema and Umera of the gathering were surprised and
they mentioned that it is the first time they witnessed a doctor who quoted Islamic teachings. I emphasized
the necessity of Pulse Polio Immunization Program and prevention of HIV through the active Religious and
Health Care participation. Muslim community is encircled with the local MAHAL network, a cluster of
members of a Mosque lead by a Muslim Scholar namely the Qazi or Imam.
We have to take strategies to convince the Mahal leadership on the burning issues of the impact of HIV.
Starting from the Adolescence issues and the demoralization among youth, we can reach the main issue. If
they are convinced of the impact of religion on youth and mass behaviour, it will be great, as they will
undertake the key role in sensitization. Friday gathering, prayer and sermon is obligatory to all Muslims. A
large majority of the Muslims will participate in the Friday prayers. The Khateeb is the person who delivers
moral advice to the attendees. Usually the topics are related to the fundamental belief of Islam, like
Oneness of God, Life in the Hereafter, Character building, family bonds and so on. If the Khateeb is
sensitized in health care issues including HIV, the whole community will get the proper awareness on the
issue. The majority of these audiences are usually away from our health care public addressing system. The
source of information is also vital. They will be cent percent convinced by the advice of their Khateeb, as it
is an honorable post among the believers.
Imam, the leader of the Prayers at the mosque and Muaddhin, the caller for the prayers have also got a vital
role in community sensitization. Classes can be arranged on the immunization programs of Hajj pilgrims,
were the fairly affluent class of the community participates. In Kerala, the Mujahid and Salafi movements,
a leading religious organization working for the renaissance of Muslim community for the last hundred
years, are regularly conducting Khateeb Training Programs. This can be utilized for public health
awareness among the Khateebs.
There are regular gatherings of religious leaders under the banner of Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulema, which also
can be effectively utilized for this purpose. The issues related with sex, sexuality and moral living are there
in the current Madrassa syllabus. This can be modified with the recent concepts of Adolescence Education
Program (AEP) with Islamic perspective. Religious Educational Boards must be rescheduled with qualified
persons from health care system and community development.
Training strategy must be revised. Brief lectures relating family education, adolescence health must be
inserted along with the other basic Islamic classes. As I have conducted around two hundred health classes
among the faith based organization in south India, I have found that there is good effect on awareness
building if we mix the religious classes along with health care classes. If a simple health class is conducted
by a FBO a minor group will attend and majority will not be interested.
III. TRAINIG PROGRAMMES: Special training programs must be conducted for:
Community leaders (Ulema and Umera), Office bearers of religious organizations, Khateeb and Qazi
training, Imam & Muaddhin training, Training programs for Muslim women leaders, Training for Mahal
officials, Training for Madrassa teachers and ustads, Special training for Arabic college and Dhars students
REFERENCES: A good number of references are available with the standard religious texts:
Index of THE NOBLE QUR'AN translation by Dr. Taqi-ud-Din Al Hilali & THE HOLY QUR'AN English
translation of Yousuf Ali reveals a better reference on fundamental topics.
Translations of SAHIHUL BUKHARI & SAHIH MUSLIM by DARUSSALAM PUBLICATION, Adabu
zifafu fil Islam- Arabic (sexual mannerisms of Islam) are good references on this issue.
Krishnakanta Goswami (Datta), Independent Consultant, Kolkata
Religion, with its varied dimension has created several meanings in the minds of its followers. Religion,
with ethnocentrism and other specific kinds of beliefs have raised certain typical questions, which might
sound a bit erotic from a neutral standpoint. But these issues seem to be quite serious when asked from a
particular vision or standpoint, that too taking reference of religious textures. Religion at times give people
a feeling of belongingness and that belongingness give a special kind of similar bonding which depicts a
same kind of feelings towards certain objects.
Islam as a religion is known to be conservative and this conservatism denotes a kind of negative ideology
towards certain aspects. This kind of similarity brings together atrocities which at times create a kind of
endangered feeling for one’s self. Religion because of its conservatism, sometimes play a very positive
role. It restricts people from conducting certain behavior. At the same time, as it regulates, it also stimulates
certain particular aspects of behaviorism. A particular organization, which is faith based, has certain
mission. The vision of such organization is always in corroboration with the particular faith, which is
governing that organization. Just as mission justifies the institution, the vision justifies the broader
intervention.
Faith based organizations are such, which at the same time relegates to certain idealism, which in turn
stipulates any kind of behaviorist pre-supposition. So as to maintain a kind of difference, faith based
organizations gives too much emphasis on its vision. Whenever anything comes, which support its vision;
the faith-based organizations incorporate this as an activity, which actually satisfy its overall goal. Though,
we as mere spectators may feel that such generosity is not expected, or may also feel that such liberality is
also not a part of stipulated action plan of particular organization, sensibility might sometimes justifies that.
We sometime ascertain certain things and pay such homage to our thought. We try to make ourselves
understand that everything do not come at one shot. So is the case of faith-based organizations. Faith-based
organizations have certain things and when any addition is been done, it always justifies its broader aim.
We, as individual expect the same kind of sincerity, as it is been expected from any non-faith-based
organizations. In fact, the kind of accessory is more when we speak about faith-based organization. Any
intervention, specifically talking abut HIV intervention, as it has components like awareness generation,
BCC material allocation, condom promotion and creation of enabling environment, might have the same
things common, in the case of faith-based organizations also. Faith-based organizations, while doing
awareness and BCC promotion may incorporate a strong vision, which actually fall under the same kind of
belief structure. Faith-based organizations may also have a strong aspect of promotion of enabling
environment. Promotion of enabling environment and its related activities may fall under the category of
propagating any organization’s overall goal. This actually creates a whole-time attachment, which under no
circumstances can be denied or left unattended. Faith-based organizations are in much effective position
compared to non-faith-based organizations and these must designate such activities to the FBO.
Dr. O. Raghuthaman, Kerala Health Services, Kasargode
Try to find out unity in diversity. That is the strength of our motherland. If we open your eyes we see the
lasting peace and harmony and unity in our motherland. It is only because of our rich heritage which has
taught us to visualize the "oneness” in multitudes. HIV virus cannot distinguish between Hindus, Muslims,
Christians or Sikhs. In that respect these tiny organisms are observing "oneness." Some time ago I had
reacted similarly when you opened a discussion based on circumcision and HIV.
ABOUT US
AIDS Cell of the Ibn Sinā Academy is dedicated to improving lives, knowledge,
awareness and understanding worldwide through a highly diversified program of
research, education, and services in HIV/AIDS. It has been organizing various functions
on World AIDS Day and International Candlelight Memorial Day in collaboration with
many other organizations and institutes. AIDS Cell has also an exclusive Library of
documentations relevant to HIV/AIDS project management, research papers, and
reproductive health issues apart from CD ROMs, posters and books in many languages.
Being a partner affiliate, members of the AIDS Cell are permitted to access many paid
books and journals such as extant in the Global Health Council, Washington, USA.
CONTACT US
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Ibn Sina Academy of Medieval Medicine & Sciences
Tijara House, Dodhpur, Aligarh -202002, India
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