A Young Women’s Dialogue brought together 30 young HIV-positive women from the 13 regions of Namibia between 21-25 January 2008. Organized by ICW, the workshop aimed to develop the women’s awareness of their rights and skills to realize those rights through advocacy. On the final day of the workshop, the young women were given a unique opportunity to speak directly to policymakers.

The Dialogue participants called for the following:

* Research by and for HIV-positive young women on experiences accessing rights and health
* More information on the specific health issues and rights of young HIV positive women
* Increased and improved services and policies for
young HIV-positive women
* Increased involvement in decision-making processes.

In response to the young women’s questions about improving their political involvement, financial security and universal access to treatment, the MPs present (Honourable Elma Jane Dienda, Hon Christian) and the Deputy Minister of Health (Hon. Petrina Haingura) stated that no-one would be turned away from a health center because of a lack of finances and that patients should be treated with respect. They also encouraged the young women to develop a joint platform and attend regional public hearings to air their concerns.