HIV/AIDS Interventions: Behavior Change Communication (BCC) Campaigns

Begun in May 2000, USAID-funded and FHI supported decentralized and comprehensive Behavior Change Communication (BCC) work reaches four provinces: Hai Phong, Can Tho, Quang Ninh and Binh Dinh. Targeted BCC work in Ha Noi, Dong Nai and Thai Binh began mid-2002. Provincial AIDS Standing Bureaus (PASB) designed the projects with FHI support. The local governments, PASBs and mass organizations implement the interventions, under the guidance of FHI. Basic, intensive and advanced BCC training and ongoing technical support from FHI are key to building local capacity in BCC work. The IEC centers of Provincial Health Services play a key role in the development of materials and for training for interpersonal communication through peer and health educators. Local artists and writers tailor messages and images to reflect local realities and target populations. FHI is encouraging use of private advertising agencies and marketing firms to develop effective media products for dissemination.