The aim of the study is to explore the effects of Global Fund HIV programmes on the roles of civil society organisations (CSOs) in Georgia, Kyrgyzstan and Ukraine. The study represents a follow-up to the Global HIV/AIDS Initiatives Network (GHIN) studies that examined the effects of Global HIV/AIDS initiatives on country health systems. Specifically the study will assess the effects of Global Fund programmes on the focus, aims and roles of CSOs; seek to understand how Global Fund HIV programmes have influenced the relationships between CSOs and government; and build an understanding of the effects of Global Fund HIV programmes on relationships between CSOs. The study will primarily be based on semi-structured interviews with country stakeholders and CSOs. Duration: January-July 2010.

Country studies are supported by the Open Society Institute. Network Funders are DFID, Irish Aid and Danida.

In Georgia the study with be implemented by Ketevan Chkhatarashvili and Natia Rukhadze from Curatio International Foundation.

The country researchers will provide inputs into the development of the Research Protocol (methodology) at other appropriate stages in the study including: design of interview tools, sampling strategy, identification of appropriate secondary data sources and relevant literature plus conducting the fieldwork.

As a result of the study articles in peer reviewed publications will be posted.