looking forward to the recognition of domestic and same-sex partnerships

As a result of staff advocacy for the recognition of domestic and same-sex partnerships the UNAIDS Administration is committed to championing this cause through the HR Network and Chief Executives Board mechanisms.

Last week UNAIDS Human Resources presented a paper at the HR Network in New York, USSA wants to share with you the outcomes of this presentation for such a change.

The presentation was positively received. General support was expressed for the principle of expanding the basis for recognition to allow for recognition based on location of the ceremony. To recognize a partnership on the basis of the country where it is contracted provides more options for members of staff if their home country does not allow same-sex partnerships. The paper also made suggestions that steps be taken to streamline the current verification process. Organizations flagged the need to consult with their legal departments before approving any such changes to expand the current rules. There are political and cost implications of such a change. UNAIDS volunteered to continue to take the lead on this initiative within the HR Network and it will be subject to further discussion at the next meeting. we congratulate Nancy Raphael and her team for the fantastic work in putting together and promoting such a great concept.

The Executive Director has given his full support to this initiative that we all expect to become a reality.

24th PCB in Geneva

USSA, UNAIDS Secretariat Staff Association presented its statement to the 24th Programme Coordinating Board of UNAIDS on the 24th June 2009.

The statement was well received and supported by member states as well as NGO delegates. The Staff Association is happy to see that its work is recognised by the UNAIDS Executive Director in both of his speeches, the opening  and closing one.

To read the statement of the staff Association, please clic on the following link USSA Statement to the 24th PCB (note that you will need to be logged on our website to access the document)