The Global Fund announced the selection of Richard Burzynski of ICASO to serve as the Developed Country NGO Communication Focal Point (read announcement here). This follows a call for applicants in May which outlined requirements for the position.

While the job is no more important than many other important roles at the Global Fund, it is noteworthy nonetheless the effort the Global Fund makes in genuinely engaging with the NGO community in policy and administrative issues. The Global Fund is unique among donors in its efforts at networking -- a laudable example others should emulate.

Alan Whiteside and Sabrina Lee have published an article in the August issue of PLoS Medicine entitled "The “Free by 5” Campaign for Universal, Free Antiretroviral Therapy". While we've commented previously on the initiative, this article provides updated information and rationale for providing free ARV therapy.

The August issue also includes many other articles relevant to global AIDS.

The lead up to the G8 Summit highlighted the divergence in views between the leadership of the UK and the US regarding foreign aid. Tony Blair is the leading proponent for significant increases in support for Africa, including AIDS spending. George Bush is the world leader most constantly pushing back. Against this dichotomy, a survey released last week by the Kaiser Family Foundation is notable in showing how similar public opinion is in England and the US regarding AIDS spending. Of 7000 respondents in 7 countries, those in the UK and US diverged almost not at all, unlike their elected leaders.