Prevent and Protect: Linking the HIV and child protection response to keep children safe, healthy and resilient

This report provides models, case studies, and lessons learned from programs that link child protection issues and HIV/AIDS. It is part of an ongoing effort to understand how child protection issues including abuse, violence, exploitation, and neglect uniquely impact children affected by HIV/AIDS, and vice versa. UNICEF selected three countries to be studied: Nigeria, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The case studies highlight programs led by governments, NGOs, Civil Society Organizations, and faith-based institutions. Evidence suggests that there are clear linkages between child protection and HIV/AIDS, and that strengthening each system will yield positive outcomes for the other. The report advocates for policies and programs that promote cross-sector collaboration. The authors provide a prioritized list of actionable steps aimed at strengthening child protection and HIV/AIDS social service systems.