HIV/AIDS interventions in low prevalence countries: a case study of Albania

Abstract

The present article analyses the current situation of HIV trends in a low‐prevalence transition country (Albania) and proposes six complementary areas of intervention aiming at keeping prevalence low in the country.Through the analysis of a specific case study, it will be argued that in low‐prevalence/high stigma areas characterized by rapid social changes, interventions should not be limited to especially vulnerable groups such as those who are victims of trafficking or who practise anal sex.In a context of dramatic social and cultural change, it cannot be assumed that traditional behavioural codes will prevail, particularly among the youngest generations. The lack of accurate information and the low level of condom use, as well as the difficulties in reaching the most vulnerable individuals, point to the need to launch culturally sensitive media interventions which should be accompanied by more targeted Information‐Education‐Communication (IEC) activities aiming at reaching specific groups. Targeting specific sites – such as the main city centres, the roads and towns near the borders, the student neighbourhoods, hotels, motels, clubs, armed forces settings, airports and ports – might be more effective than trying to reach specific groups who might be inaccessible as a consequence of the stigma and illegality associated with certain kinds of behaviour.