Our mission
AIDS Foundation East-West (AFEW) is a Dutch, non-governmental, humanitarian, public health organisation working in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) to reduce the impact of HIV and AIDS using innovative and proactive approaches and by actively seeking international and regional exchanges. Together with and for people living with HIV and affected communities, as well as non-governmental and governmental partners, AFEW conducts and supports programmes aimed at the prevention of HIV; universal access to treatment, care and support; and advocacy on the most pressing issues to alleviate the burden of the epidemic in the EECA region.
Our Vision and Core Values
The vision of AIDS Foundation East-West is a world in which HIV does not destroy lives through stigma and discrimination and where all people, regardless of their HIV status, have access to healthcare and other services that give them the opportunity to achieve their full potential. As such, through its work, AFEW employs a set of core values.
AFEW is a learning organisation in the broadest sense of the word
Learning from best-practice experiences elsewhere in the world and from knowledge gained in EECA, AFEW develops innovative tools and approaches adapted to a specific context. AFEW builds upon its own practical experience within the region, strives for ongoing improvements in its practices, and manages and transfers knowledge to the relevant stakeholders.
AFEW strengthens the capacity of professionals in EECA
AFEW strengthens the capacity of professionals in the region through the adoption of effective methods of HIV prevention, treatment, care and support given the specific circumstances in their countries. AFEW sees its role as providing assistance in such a way that appropriate action is taken, with the objective of strengthening local capacity and ensuring that the final responsibility remains with those in the society itself.
AFEW is fundamentally a humanitarian organisation
Through its work practices, AFEW contributes to the development of just, compassionate, open and democratic societies, firmly based on the principles of social justice, which affirms the dignity of each human being and emphasises the need for tolerance and co-operation.
AFEW is a transparent and accountable organisation
AFEW is fully transparent in terms of its structure, planning, decision-making, reporting and fundraising.
AFEW believes in compassion and the professionalism of its staff and this is reflected in our actions