Asia Pacific Coalition on Male Sexual Health

Apcom logo

Asia Pacific Coalition on Male Sexual Health (APCOM) is a regional organization that focuses on addressing and improving the sexual health and rights of gay men, other men who have sex with men, and transgender individuals in the Asia Pacific region. Established in 2007, APCOM operates with a mission to advocate for and support local and regional initiatives that aim to enhance the well-being, health, and human rights of these communities.

Overview

APCOM's work is centered around several key areas including HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support; sexual health; human rights; and strategic information management. The coalition works closely with a variety of stakeholders including community organizations, government bodies, healthcare providers, and international agencies to develop and implement effective strategies and programs.

Mission and Goals

The primary mission of APCOM is to advocate for policies and actions that contribute to the improvement of the health and rights of MSM (men who have sex with men) and transgender individuals. Its goals include increasing access to health services, promoting legal and policy reforms, and enhancing the capacity of community-based organizations.

Key Initiatives

APCOM has launched several initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the communities it serves. These include:

• TestBKK - A campaign focused on promoting HIV testing among MSM in Bangkok.
• Finance Inc. - A project that seeks to engage the private sector in supporting LGBTQ+ rights and health.
• APCOM Community Summit - An annual event that brings together activists, health professionals, and policymakers to discuss and strategize on issues affecting MSM and transgender people in the region.

Impact

Through its initiatives, APCOM has made significant contributions to the improvement of sexual health and rights for MSM and transgender individuals in the Asia Pacific. The coalition's efforts have led to increased awareness, better access to health services, and policy changes in several countries within the region.

Challenges

Despite its achievements, APCOM faces ongoing challenges such as stigma, discrimination, and legal barriers that hinder the effectiveness of health and rights programs for MSM and transgender people. The coalition continues to work towards overcoming these obstacles through advocacy, education, and partnership building.

See Also

• HIV/AIDS in Asia
• LGBT rights in Asia
• Transgender rights
• Sexual health