CEOs from many of the world's top companies including Chevron, Dell, ExxonMobil, Heineken, Coca-Cola, Gap and Nike gathered in New York on November 30, 2008 to make an unprecedented pledge to end workplace HIV discrimination and stigma.
In all, more than 100 members of the Global Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria made the historic commitment covering approximately five million employees around the world.
Eradicating stigma and discrimination is critical to defeating HIV/AIDS, which has claimed more than 25 million lives.
"Stigma and discrimination kill," said Coalition President and CEO Richard Holbrooke. "They keep people from getting tested, and from getting the care and support they need. Ending stigma is one of the most effective things anyone can do to stop AIDS.
"By making its powerful voice clear, business is providing much needed leadership which will, in turn, influence the behavior and actions of governments and individuals," Holbrooke continued. "Collective, coordinated action on AIDS is critical. It's impossible to win the fight without it."
The signatories delivered a clear message that their companies are taking concrete action to end HIV/AIDS. Workplace policies can increase the rate of HIV testing and the take-up of treatment, and corporate attitudes can have a significant impact on communities, governments and business partners.
To learn more about the Coalition and its drive to mobilize the power of business to achieve results in the fight against AIDS, TB and Malaria visit: http://www.gbcimpact.org/live/feature/strategy.php
The full list of CEO signatories to the pledge follows here: