ICRW Joins Global Community in Mourning Loss of Life in MH-17 Tragedy

ICRW joins the world in mourning the tragic loss of 298 people killed on Malaysian Airlines Flight 17– more than 100 of whom dedicated their lives to combatting the HIV epidemic through research, advocacy and program implementation.

Among those who perished was Dr. Joep Lange, a celebrated scholar, leader and advocate in the global fight to end the HIV epidemic. Over the past thirty years, the former president of the International AIDS Society fought to broaden access to affordable HIV treatment across Asia and Africa. He also pioneered new innovations in antiretroviral therapy, and played a critical role in researching methods to prevent HIV transmission from mother to child. A humanitarian in every sense of the word, Dr. Lange and his legacy as a champion for HIV research will not be forgotten.

Unfortunately, Dr. Lange is but one of many who left the community of HIV researchers, practitioners, and advocates too soon. As we continue to learn more about others who perished, we have no doubt the pain of this tragedy will only deepen.  The upcoming 20^th International AIDS Conference in Melbourne, which brings together a closely knit community united in the fight against the epidemic, will not be the same without them.  As members of the broader HIV and AIDS research and advocacy community, ICRW sends our heartfelt and deepest condolences to the loved ones of those lost in this devastating event.  They will be deeply missed.