Member Associations

Gestos is a philanthropic organization founded in 1993 by sociologist Acioli Neto, journalist Alessandra Nilo, sociologist Márcia Andrade and social worker Silvia Dantas. The first project developed was supported by MISEREOR and focused on psychological care for people living with AIDS, as well as the training of information multipliers in the poorest communities of the Metropolitan Region of Recife. Since then, they have effectively contributed to guaranteeing the human rights of people living with HIV and AIDS. About 70% of the people who have sought legal support from the institution have had their rights redressed, through precautionary measures and sentences, which today are even part of the list of jurisprudence on the subject of Law and AIDS. Throughout its history, the organization has considered communication as fundamental in the fight against AIDS and has fought to expand this understanding in Pernambuco, Brazil and Latin America. This vision has consolidated Gestos as an important reference in Communication and AIDS in the country, with special emphasis on discussions on Public Policies on Health Communication. They also help to form new civil society organizations, such as the National Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (RNPVHA - 1995), the Positive Work Group - GTP+ (2000), the Group of Positive Actions (2003), the Group of Support to HIV Positive People (GASP) 2003, Acts of Citizenship (2006). From 2007 to 2011, Gestos created and coordinated the UNGASS-AIDS Forum on Sexual and Reproductive Health, where it oversaw the implementation of agreements signed at the UN in sixteen developing countries. The UNGASS-AIDS Forum has established itself as a space for political debate on issues related to HIV and AIDS and sexual and reproductive health and rights. They are also a consultative NGO at the UN, with ECOSOC status since 2017.   Instagram Twitter

Bandhu Social Welfare Society(Bandhu) is a community led organization which was founded in 1996 and formally registered with the Ministry of Social Welfare (MOSW) and the NGO Affairs Bureau in July 1997. Bandhu’s Mission Bandhu works towards ensuring a dignified life for gender diverse populations by protecting human rights, promoting a sustainable livelihood, improving access to quality health care including SRHR, and enhancing access to social security and gender justice. Bandhu’s Vision Bandhu envisions a society where people from all gender identities are enjoying quality life. Bandhu’s Core Values Gender Diversity: Bandhu is committed to value gender diverse population in all their diversities i.e. class, age, religion, ethnicity, culture, language, caste, class, HIV status, profession, identity and convictions by integrating an intersectional approach. Confidentiality: Bandhu respects the right to privacy and confidentiality of gender diverse populations, including their defenders. Quality of Care (Service): Bandhu aims to promote and provide Quality of Care in services that are built on principles of gender equality & equity, inclusiveness 25 and human rights. These services should be non-discriminatory and non-judgmental. Transparency, accountability and Good Governance: Bandhu works on principles of transparency, openness, accountability and integrity. Reduce inequality and discrimination: Our commitment is to reduce stigma and discrimination in all its forms. Innovation: We are committed to learn from past experience and wisdom of others in order to innovate and improve our efforts.