About iusti
International Union against Sexually Transmitted Infections
The International Union against Sexually Transmitted Infections (IUSTI) is the oldest international organisation in the field (founded in 1923). Its object is the achievement of international cooperation in the control of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV infection.
IUSTI is especially concerned not only with the medical aspects but the social and epidemiological aspects of the control of sexually transmitted diseases and increasingly HIV/AIDS.
IUSTI is on the Roster of the United Nations Economic and Social Council, and is an Official Non-Government Organisation in Consultative Status with the World Health Organisation.
Organisation
The International Union against Sexually Transmitted Infections (hereafter referred to as the Union or IUSTI) is a UK-registered charity, without political religious or social ties.
The IUSTI has a central Executive consisting of the President, Secretary General, Honorary Treasurer and Assistant Secretary, together with Regional Directors for Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific and Africa. These officers are helped by an Executive Board composed of senior international STD experts.
Membership is open to individuals who have a professional interest in the control of sexually transmitted diseases. It is emphasised that a medical qualification is not required. Membership is also open to organisations such as national organisations for the study of sexually transmitted diseases and from sponsors.
How does IUSTI relate to ISSTDR?
There is often confusion about how IUSTI relates to ISSTDR (www.isstdr.org).
The International Society for Sexually Transmitted Diseases Research exists exclusively for the purpose of conducting a high quality research meeting every two years. It was established in 1977, and conducts biennial scientific meetings that address the entire range of the biomedical, behavioural and social sciences related to all STDs, including HIV infection. ISSTDR has an elected board but not individual members.
In contrast, IUSTI is an organisation of members, whose objective is achievement of international cooperation in the control of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV infection. IUSTI is on the Roster of the United Nations Economic and Social Council as well as an official Non-Government Organisation in Consultative Status with the World Health Organisation. IUSTI has individual members that belong to different regions around the world. It has a broader brief and holds meetings in its different regions. Every two years its annual world congress is held in conjunction with the ISSTDR meeting.
