From Community Voices to National Action: Strengthening Myanmar’s HIV Response
Myanmar’s HIV response is guided by the leadership of the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the National AIDS Program (NAP), with a strong commitment to inclusive, evidence-based, and people-centred approaches.
In support of this national effort, MPG, working closely with community networks and partners, has strengthened structured community engagement processes to contribute to national strategic planning for HIV and Global Fund Grant Cycle 8 (GC8) Proposal development process.
Community representatives contribute to national HIV planning processes in Myanmar
Overview
Between March and May 2026, UNAIDS and MPG facilitated consultations with people living with HIV (PLHIV) and key populations across multiple regions.
These consultations were:
- Aligned with national planning timelines and processes
- Conducted in coordination with relevant stakeholders
- Designed to complement epidemiological and programmatic data
This approach ensured that community perspectives contributed meaningfully to ongoing national discussions.
Key Priorities Identified
Through the consultations, communities highlighted key programmatic priorities:
- Expansion of community-led and decentralized HIV services
- Increased outreach to underserved and hard-to-reach populations
- Integration of HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis services
- Improved access to PrEP, PEP, and differentiated care models
These priorities reflect both national goals and the lived realities of affected communities.
From Community Input to National Impact
The engagement process contributed to strengthening national HIV programming by:
- Improving the quality and relevance of the National Strategic Plan (NSP V 2026–2031)
- Informing aspects of the Global Fund GC8 funding request
- Enhancing alignment between services and community needs
- Supporting equity-focused and people-centred approaches
All contributions were made in line with national protocols and decision-making mechanisms, ensuring coordination and accountability.
Partnership and Collaboration
This initiative reflects strong collaboration between:
- Ministry of Health / National AIDS Program (NAP)
- Myanmar Positive Group (MPG)
- Community Networks of PLHIV and key populations
- UNAIDS and technical partners
- The Global Fund
- Asia-Pacific Regional Learning Hub
Together, these partners ensured that community engagement complements national systems and strengthens overall coordination.
Operating in a Complex Context
Implementation took place in a challenging environment, including:
- Limited access to some geographic areas
- Logistical and resource constraints
Despite these challenges:
- Engagement was achieved across multiple regions
- Adaptive approaches ensured continuity
- Efforts are ongoing to expand inclusion of underserved populations
Leadership Voices
“When community perspectives are meaningfully integrated within national systems, they strengthen and ensure sustinability of public health systems. Together, we are building a more inclusive and responsive HIV response for Myanmar.”— Thawdar Kyaw, Chairperson, Myanmar Positive Group
“By working closely with the National AIDS Program, UNAIDS and partners, we ensure that community engagement supports national priorities while improving services for those most in need.”— Dr. Sai Htun Lin, Executive Director, Myanmar Positive Group
Looking Ahead
MPG remains committed to:
- Supporting MOH and NAP leadership
- Strengthening community engagement within national systems
- Contributing to equitable, evidence-based HIV programmes
Sustained collaboration between government, communities, and partners will be essential to achieve progress towards ending HIV as a public health threat.
Acknowledgement
MPG expresses sincere appreciation to:
- Ministry of Health and National AIDS Program
- Community representatives and networks
- UNAIDS, Global Fund, and technical partners
- Asia-Pacific Regional Learning Hub
Together, these efforts demonstrate that strong national leadership and meaningful community engagement are mutually reinforcing pillars of an effective HIV response.
