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The Australian Development Gateway (ADG) strives to support members of the development community in their efforts to reduce poverty and enhance sustainable development in the Asia Pacific region. The site has been created with participation from members of government, private, academia and non-government organisations. User feedback mechanisms have been incorporated to guide future directions of the site. The site is optimised for low bandwidth access to enable the widest participation throughout the Asia Pacific region.

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Faith-based leadership

HIV, AIDS and Islam (pdf 1.2mb)

This manual aims to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS, its manifestations and impact on the community amongst Muslims. In addition, it encourages discussion on gender, sex and sexuality and looks at how to incorporate these and a holistic approach to illness and sexual health from an Islamic perspective.

The manual is based around eleven workshop sessions and makes reference to the Qur'an, Hadith and the Shar'iah in order to give participants a framework in which to understand the Islamic perspective.

Its conclusions include:
- Religious approach to HIV and AIDS limited to scolding, denial, judgement or pity is inadequate.
- Understanding Islam as a faith of compassion and justice will encourage a sense of community rather than individualism based on fear and self-preservation
- Awareness work must also be accompanied by political action that challenges the unjust social conditions which contribute to the spread of the disease or make recovery more difficult, such as chronic poverty and vulnerability

 

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