Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Diocesi La Rioja
La Rioja (Agenzia Fides) - “When society is informed, organized and committed to prevention, it is possible to protect life and provide more compassionate support to those living with this disease,” stated participants at the recent forum on raising awareness and supporting people living with HIV, which brought together the Bishop of La Rioja, Dante Braida, and members of the Working Group on HIV and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD).
During the meeting, which brought together organizations and institutions involved in monitoring the situation of these diseases in the province and identifying strategies for prevention, awareness-raising and support, members of the working group presented the community activities they are carrying out in various sectors of society, focusing on prevention, access to testing, support for HIV-positive people and the promotion of their rights.
One of the key points highlighted by the Diocese of La Rioja was the importance of prevention, especially among young people. It was noted that various spaces within the Church community, such as schools, catechism classes and pastoral groups, can become valuable settings for promoting information, support and awareness of this reality.
With regard to the various aspects of the current HIV situation in the province, those present discussed the potential link between substance abuse and increased vulnerability to the disease, as well as the need to strengthen public policies on prevention and early diagnosis. Participants agreed on the importance of the Government continuing to promote awareness campaigns, access to diagnostic testing and prevention strategies, as detecting the disease in its early stages significantly improves treatment and the quality of life of those affected.
Finally, emphasis was also placed on the impact that HIV can have not only on those infected, but also on their families, highlighting the importance of supporting them and promoting a culture of respect, understanding and solidarity. Members of the Working Group reiterated the importance of continuing to build collective responses to this reality, promoting dialogue between institutions, social engagement and the defence of every person’s dignity. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 16/3/2026)
