HIV Prevention and Infrastructure: Mitigating Risk in the Greater Mekong Subregion

1. The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) is one of the world’s fastest-growing subregions
in economic development. Investments in infrastructure, especially transport corridors, are
improving physical connectivity and regional integration, while cross-border agreements are
facilitating the movement of goods and people across borders. Improved connectivity and
regional integration also mean increased vulnerability to the spread of HIV, especially along
newly developed transport corridors, in cross-border areas and new economic corridors.
2. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has a commitment to promoting economic growth
and poverty reduction in the GMS through the three “Cs”—improving connectivity, enhancing
competitiveness, and promoting community.1 Consistent with this strategy, ADB financing for
infrastructure projects in the GMS is increasing, particularly in road-related economic corridors.
Recognizing the links between connectivity and the spread of HIV, ADB is also committed to
fighting HIV in the region, particularly as that risk may be heightened by the development of
transportation and other infrastructure.2
3. The commitment to economic development, poverty reduction, and HIV prevention in the
GMS is shared by the Government of Australia.3 Given ADB’s experience with the design and
implementation of HIV prevention packages in association with infrastructure development,
particularly in road construction, the Government of Australia is partnering with ADB to
strengthen and expand these activities in the GMS. The proposed technical assistance (TA) will
support HIV prevention activities to be implemented in connection with