Health Movement and Civil Society Activism: An Interface of Overlap and Exclusion

Abstract

Of late, the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) has become a cause of concern for both the state and the non-state actors. The activism led by civil society on HIV/AIDS and health movements espouses the health needs and rights of HIV positive people. While playing politically active role, at times civil society organizations (CSOs) support health movements, and their activities overlap. Although these groups are different in nature, structure and strategies, there are some commonalities among them. This article discusses the opportunities for coalition between CSOs and health movement, and also analyzes problems that lead to exclusion. The joint efforts of movements and CSOs have influenced the policy formulation and implementation towards ensuring rights of HIV positive people. There are several conducive factors towards building a strong network between CSOs and health movement. However, due to limitations associated with their activities, a strong coalition has not been possible resulting in a lack of a strong social movement.