The International Olympics Committee (IOC) and UNAIDS have teamed up against HIV/AIDS by encouraging some 11,000 athletes participating in the upcoming Games in Athens, Greece, to wear red ribbons.
Raising AIDS awareness at the Games marks the latest stage in the partnership between the IOC and UNAIDS.
In June 2004, UNAIDS, the IOC and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies held a two-day "Olympic Sport and HIV/AIDS" workshop in Johannesburg, South Africa.
"The world of sport is not separate from the rest of the world," said IOC President Jacques Rogge. "Sport breaks down barriers, promotes self-esteem, and can teach life skills and healthy behaviour. Athletes can be an inspiration and role models for the youth of the world."
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