Armenia has been recognized by the United Nations for its elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV programme. The 2017 United Nations Public Service Awards saw Armenia win first prize in the Innovation and Excellence in Delivering Health Services category.
The award was made at the 2017 United Nations Public Service Forum, held in The Hague, Netherlands, on 22 and 23 June to debate how innovative policies can be fostered to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development even when resources are scarce, objectives are highly ambitious and interests are disparate.
In 2016, Armenia was one of only four countries to be validated by the World Health Organization for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
“Maternal and child health protection, including healthy infants born to HIV-positive mothers, are among the major priorities for the health-care system of Armenia. Armenia’s success on elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV brings it one step closer to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.”
Levon Altunyan Minister of Health, Armenia
“This award is a clear signal that Armenia can be among the first countries in eastern Europe and central Asia to achieve an AIDS-free generation and to end the AIDS epidemic.”
Vinay P. Saldanha Director, UNAIDS Regional Support Team for Eastern Europe and Central Asia
