3. The importance of advocacy

Emergencies do not occur in a political vacuum and for the smooth running of any relief or humanitarian operation there must be good communication and cooperation with national and local authorities if they still exist, especially the military.

Food - or the need for it - is one of the major reasons for sex being used as a currency of exchange. Ensuring the availability of adequate, appropriate food would reduce vulnerability.

Among the elements of advocacy that are important are:

· Reassuring governments, especially those hosting refugees, that the international community is aware of the extra burden being imposed on them and will do what is possible to help them shoulder it. As far as HIV/AIDS is concerned, this means listening to their concerns and collaborating with them on dealing with the issues that arise; also ensuring that interventions planned are in line with the national programme.

· Reassuring host countries or communities that the needs of those living with or alongside refugees will not be ignored. When planning HIV/AIDS interventions it should be recognized that there will be considerable interaction between communities, and providing services for one and not the other is not only counterproductive in terms of preventing the spread of HIV, but is likely to cause ill-feeling and friction.

· Coming to agreement on who should coordinate the activities, and forming partnerships with others working in the same field.