Many social factors, including cultural constraints, challenge the dissemination of information on HIV/AIDS in Asia. As discussing sex is usually taboo, young people rarely have access to accurate information on sexual matters, leading them to indulge in risky behaviour. Gender discrimination often results in girls and women being denied access to reproductive health facilities and safe contraceptive methods. Prejudices about sex workers, injecting drug users and homosexual behaviour make it difficult to incorporate these groups into effective awareness raising programmes. Finally, poverty and the lack of education also compel many Asians to place their health at risk.

In response, Young Asia Television has produced a series of short video reports on HIV/AIDS awareness. Featuring examples from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Cambodia – this series has allowed YA*TV to discuss HIV transmission and prevention, while challenging misconceptions, dispelling fear, and most importantly educating young people on the importance of safe sexual practices, through a non-judgmental, youth-friendly approach.

Four main themes of the series:

• People Living with HIV/AIDS –profile young people who have responded positively to the presence of HIV in their lives, while portraying what it is like to be HIV positive in Asia.
• Positive Initiatives — highlight initiatives undertaken by communities, NGO's and Governments in both HIV/AIDS prevention and advocacy.
• Sex Education – interviews with young people to find out their views on the importance of sex education.
• HIV/AIDS Facts – PSA's (public service announcements) including pertinent information about HIV/AIDS targetted at young people.

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