This technical brief outlines the principles and approaches summarized above. It should be read in conjunction with the Global Fund’s HIV information note,5 which provides wider context for HIV funding requests. This technical brief is based on the latest normative and implementation guidance, including the four implementation tools for HIV programming with key populations, iii which translate into practical steps both the clinical guidance and the critical enablers (addressing barriers to services) contained in the WHO Consolidated Guidelines on HIV Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment and Care for Key Populations (2016). The implementation tools were compiled through a process of close collaboration between key-population-led organizations and networks, United Nations agencies, and other international partners.

This technical brief is also based on lessons learned from an assessment of programs for key populations across 65 countries. The assessment was commissioned by the Global Fund to examine how HIV service packages are designed, delivered, and monitored during the 2017– 2019 allocation period (it is referred to in this document as the “assessment report”).

Section 1 of this brief outlines why key populations are especially vulnerable to HIV. Section 2 presents principles and approaches that must underlie all aspects of programming. Section 3 describes the components that should be part of National Strategic Plans and national programs for key populations, covering strategic information, program design, program implementation, and monitoring. It includes the comprehensive package of interventions, and the “critical enablers” defined by WHO to address rights-related barriers to services. The annexes provide examples of approaches and programs from around the world, a list of representative networks of key populations, key reference documents, and a glossary of terms.

Global Fund Technical brief on HIV and key populations Programming at scale with sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender people, people who inject drugs, and people in prison and other closed settings