On Feb. 18 in Port Moresby, UNAIDS Executive Director Peter Piot launched Igat Hope ("There is Hope"), a support group for people with HIV/AIDS in Papua New Guinea. "It will help to break the silence surrounding AIDS which I see prevalent not only in PNG, but in the region," said Piot. At an Asia-Pacific leaders' forum on HIV/AIDS the previous day, Piot called Papua New Guinea a new frontline in the AIDS epidemic. The objective of Igat Hope is to create a united voice for HIV-positive people in PNG, said Maura Elaripe, the group's vice president. She said the group will lobby the government for support, provide information about HIV/AIDS, promote treatment and care access, and fight stigma surrounding the disease.

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