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AIDS Groups Protest World Cup Condom Ban


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AIDS awareness group are protesting a ban by FIFA, the world soccer governing body, on the distribution of health-related information and condoms at World Cup venues in South Africa.

According to the Associated Press, “An alliance of 10 leading South African HIV/AIDS organizations said FIFA has not permitted civic groups to set up booths and small ‘wellness centers’ at FIFA controlled venues, while commercial sponsors are allowed to sell alcohol.”

FIFA countered by saying that it would launch an HIV campaign including condom distribution within “fan service areas” in host cities.

“But FIFA said in a statement Saturday that it launched its own HIV campaign with host city authorities by encouraging them to install ‘fan service areas’ in the cities during the June 11 to July 11 World Cup where basic medicines, sunscreen and condoms could be distributed free. City medical departments and ambulance services were also expected to make available HIV information leaflets and condoms,” reported the AP.

However, civic groups say that in order to make a difference, they need to be closer to the World Cup venues, in what are known as “controlled access sites,” where they can reach the majority of fans.

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Reader Comments
  • Name: Greg
    Date posted: 6/6/2010 1:36:20 PM
    Hometown: RI

    Comment:

    John- that's hilarious! But again, why go to the trouble of a BAN? Soccer is indeed mysterious to us Americans. Some of those guys are so hot it seems much of the audience would just cream their pants anyway, no condoms necessary.

  • Name: Ace
    Date posted: 6/5/2010 9:36:12 PM
    Hometown: ventura, ca

    Comment:

    World Cup is a series of games, a huge international competition, not just one match and people will be rabidly supporting their home nations. And when they party, the will get drunk. Its not an if. Its a planned party for the entire city. These inebriated people will then try there luck at getting lucky and if they are lucky they should use protection. If free protection is to be given (which is wise in the HIV-full continent of Africa) it should be given in both places. Near the hotels and hooker zones and near the soccer field through which all fans must go to. Easy distribution.

  • Name: John
    Date posted: 6/5/2010 8:54:19 PM
    Hometown: Masssachusetts

    Comment:

    Sorry, but am I missing something here? Why is it important to distribute condoms inside a sports event? Have the rules of soccer changed in a dramatic yet intriguing way? Do people really go to soccer games to find f*ck-buddies? Or to get medical advice? Why not distribute condoms at church services? At movie theaters? At midnight madness sales at WalMart? Honestly, perhaps people can, you know, hold off on the f*cking until they can make it from the venue to a 7-11--is that too much to ask?



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