YOUTH VIOLENCE AND HIV A CONCERN FOR YOUNG PEOPLE CECILIA GARCIA RUIZ Gender Projects Coordinator Espolea

The Numbers 41 % of new HIV infections occur among young people between 15 and 24 years. Worldwide, approximately homicides occur among youth between the ages of 10 and 29 each year (WHO). 41% of the annual total number of homicides globally

Globally, women years old are more vulnerable to HIV infection, with infection rates to twice as high as among men of the same age.

Patterns of youth violence Violence has a gender dimension. Violence among pre-adolescents is a growing concern among citizens. School violence has escalated. Youth violence is often a response to the threat and fear of victimization. Youth violence is closely associated with community violence. Youth victimization by peers and adults creates an environment for more violence. UNDP Citizen Security Survey 2010

Environmental and structural risk factors for youth violence

Recommendations on the way forward Acknowledge the role that youth plays in the processes of preventing violence.  Need of disaggregated data by sex, age, ethnic group.  Contextualized programs that are inclusive and integrated.  Coordination and partnership among intergovernmental, governmental and civil society stakeholders is imperative and must support youth-adult partnerships.  Strengthen police-youth relationships.  Provision of specific alternatives.

Using information and communication technologies, including social networks to spread the message and foster youth participation to prevent youth violence and HIV.

Thank you! Cecilia García Ruiz Gender Projects Coordinator