The threat of a spreading HIV/AIDS epidemic, with its complex social and economic ramifications, demands a coordinated and many-sided response. Although the HIV infection rate in China is currently low, combating it is still an urgent priority. Infections are concentrated in certain areas and among certain populations, and there is a real danger of the epidemic entering the general population.

The absolute numbers of people infected and affected are high, requiring both medical and social responses to reduce the impact of AIDS on families, communities and society.

Since its founding in 1996, the United Nations Theme Group on HIV/AIDS in China has served as a forum to plan, coordinate and monitor the UN's contribution to the HIV/AIDS response. The theme group has supported the Government's roll-out of the Three Ones policy. The Three Ones policy, which consists of one national multi-sectoral five-year plan; one national authority coordinating the response; and one monitoring and evaluation system, has helped to streamline and strengthen the national programme. With the assistance of the UN Theme Group on HIV/AIDS, the Government has put in place a dynamic nationwide programme. Some provinces have also started their own initiatives to complement the nationwide programme.

Working together, the UN Agencies in China have lauched a Joint Programme on AIDS in China (2007-2010). Using lessons learned by the UN around the world, in order to achieve Goal 6 of the Millennium Development Goals, the UN Country Team provides support for reducing vulnerability and risk behaviour; improving treatment, care and support for people living with HIV/AIDS and their families; raising public and official awareness about HIV/AIDS and reducing stigma and discrimination, where necessary making use of minority languages and culture. The UN also promotes the involvement of civil society, including people living with HIV/AIDS, in the response to the epidemic and addresses the important gender dimensions of HIV/AIDS.