In Bangladesh, religious leaders are speaking openly about responsible sexual behavior and how to protect against HIV/AIDS. The unprecedented move by the most respected voice in society is in response to a trend among young people for unprotected pre- and extra-marital sex. Many young people are not aware of sexually transmitted diseases or how to prevent infection because discussing sex and sexuality is taboo.

There are three million religious institutions including mosques, churches, temples and pagodas in Bangladesh – preaching to most of the population every week. Imams and other religious leaders are constantly in touch with the people. But persuading them to help was no easy task.

Dr Ahmed of Save the Children explains:

“The religious leaders, sitting with other people realized they have more of a role to play, they have to be more active than saying nothing. In Bangladesh, nearly 1,500 people are HIV positive. We can isolate them but that is not going to solve it. Only educating people with the relevant facts will make a difference.”

A committee comprising Muslims – who make up 90 percent of the population – as well as Hindus, Buddhists and Christians worked together to develop an information campaign about responsible living. This Global Fund financed program marks the first time that the four religions have ever cooperated on a joint initiative in Bangladesh.

The program has inspired a wider change in the country: families are more open to discussions about serious issues affecting young adults; information on sexual health has been written into the school curriculum; health services are more youth friendly; and the national media provides information to make people more aware of the consequences of their actions.