Statements and Webcast
Finland
H.E. Mr. Jarmo Viinanen, Permanent Representative
10 June 2011
- Statement: English (Check against delivery)
Statement Summary
JARMO VIINANEN (Finland), aligning with the European Union, focused on the crucial role of young people, who must be well equipped to make informed choices in their lives. Young people could be positive agents of change if provided with proper support. They must have access to comprehensive sexuality education, as well as sexual and reproductive health services. Adolescents and young people must be informed about responsible sexual behaviour and respect both themselves and others. In Finland, comprehensive formal and informal sexuality education was offered from an early age, and the country was moving from a “biological” focus to a wider perspective that included emotional and social aspects. The results of that approach had been seen in a reduction in the number of teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections and abortions. Young people were also delaying sexual activity.
Noting that Finland had been a long-term supporter of UNAIDS, he said the country also had channelled aid through the Global Fund, as well as non-governmental organizations, and it fulfilled its international aid commitments. In addition to traditional official development assistance (ODA), countries must look into other financing sources. Also essential were national ownership and domestic resource mobilization. Emerging economies also must have a role. Moreover, comprehensive, people-centred policies were needed to achieve internationally agreed development objectives. Everyone should be involved in promoting the common vision of zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths, including civil society, parliamentarians and the private sector.
Source: GA/11093