The report suggests that there is a general increase in public awareness of HIV/AIDS as a political and social problem. There is, however, no basis to argue that HIV/AIDS is shaping public opinion in a consistent fashion 
across the Southern African region. South Africa is an exception though as statistical patterns indicate that people who suffer personal loss are more likely to prioritise HIV/AIDS in their demands on government interventions. There is nothing, however, that suggests at this point in time that people affected by HIV/AIDS would change their choice of political party as a result of this disaffection. (ibid.: 17).
Willan notes that the high HIV/AIDS prevalence in South Africa has generated high mobilisation around the issue from civil society, as in the case of the Treatment Action Campaign (Samantha Willan, “HIV/AIDS, Democracy and Governance in South Africa”, African Civil Society Governance and Aids Initiative, Issue Brief No. 1 May 2004).
Next: Special vote
