NEW YORK—The Open Society Foundations extend our condolences to the friends and family of loved ones on Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17. We are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of the HIV/AIDS researchers and advocates onboard traveling to the 20th International AIDS Conference in Melbourne, Australia, along with all the other people who perished.
The Open Society Foundations have long supported communities, activists, and civil society responding to HIV/AIDS epidemics worldwide. The International AIDS Conference is a preeminent place for scientists, activists, communities, and implementers to mobilize a political response to HIV/AIDS. The tragedy strikes at the heart of these efforts. It is our hope that the work of the conference will be part of a lasting testament to the memories of the leaders who were lost and redouble our efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
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The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. Working with local communities in more than 100 countries, the Open Society Foundations support justice and human rights, freedom of expression, and access to public health and education.
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