The response to the HIV epidemic must be multidisciplinary and far-reaching, involving all levels and sectors of society. That is why UNESCO is working in partnership with many different actors, including Ministries of Education and other government bodies, UNAIDS cosponsoring organizations and other UN organizations, multilateral and bilateral agencies, civil society and the private sector.

UNESCO plays a leading role in EDUCAIDS and the UNAIDS Inter-Agency Task Team (IATT) on Education, which are viewed as key mechanisms in strengthening the UNAIDS combined effort to achieve Universal Access to prevention, treatment, care and support. 

UNESCO’s response to HIV and AIDS is carried out within the context of:
- Achieving the goals and targets of Education for All (EFA);
- The Declaration of Commitment on HIV/AIDS, adopted at the United Nations General Assembly Special Session on HIV/AIDS (UNGASS) in 2001 – reviewed in 2006.