- Raise you voices

Ukraine is the European country most severely challenged by HIV and AIDS. The appeal is broadcasted the day before the final match of the Football World Championships in Kiev, and it is expected that approximately seven million will see the appeals from the Crown Princess and her fellow UNAIDS ambassadors. 

Crown Princess Mette-Marit:

"Youth activism is critical in combatting HIV and in promoting a tolerant attitude towards people affected by the epidemic. Today I am addressing those whose life choices will shape the future of the HIV response and those who are the most vulnerable to the HIV infection. I’m speaking to the youth of Ukraine and of other countries in the region, where the number of people living with HIV has almost tripled between 2000 and 2009.

I strongly believe in youth. Youth leadership is the key in the HIV response. Unite your forces and raise your voices - and you will change our common future. Here is what you can do:

Get knowledge about HIV and spread it. Support people living with HIV and let them feel that they are part of the community. Raise your voice against stigma and discrimination.
Together we can stop this epidemic."

A Special Representative for UNAIDS since 2006, Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s primary focus has been on securing youth leadership in the effort to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and to combat prejudice.