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    Like many hairdressers all over the world, Paul Lopez has built up a close relationship with his clients. They listen to his advice about their appearance and discuss personal problems. But at his salon in Mexico City, Paul does more than exchange gossip and dispense beauty tips. He gives out information that can save lives.Paul has been trained under an innovative United Nations-sponsored campaign in Mexico to promote awareness among his clients about HIV/AIDS. Because their customers listen to them, a growing number of hairdressers and barbers are key partners in the campaign to educate people about the disease and how to protect themselves. The campaign, called "Red Ribbon Link to Life: Preventing HIV/AIDS", is an example of how the UN works with governments and the private sector to develop projects that have a real impact. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and UNAIDS — the partnership of United Nations agencies leading the global fight to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS — provide support for the campaign. It is coordinated by Mexico’s National Council for AIDS (CONASIDA-in Spanish) and the Secretary of Health, in collaboration with the professional association of beauty salons. The United Nations will hold a Special Session in June 2001 to galvanize political leadership and mobilize resources to deal with the AIDS epidemic. "The General Assembly special session will provide us with an occasion as never before to face up to our responsibility to future generations, and take decisive action now to turn back the progress of this terrible disease," says UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan. FIND OUT MORE about how the UN and its partners are working to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS. Click on the links next to Paul's photo. ADDITIONAL HIV/AIDS STORIES: Who will care for Nakyeyune? Marita's work is just beginning | Voices from the frontlines of the battle against AIDS Photo credit: Maurice Ramos |
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