Many HIV/AIDS researchers and advocates travelling to the 2014 International Aids Conference are believed to have perished in the downing of Malaysia Flight MH17 by a reputed missile. The flight was traveling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur. While there are reports naming specific passengers, at this point no passenger has been confirmed by a credible government source or Malaysia Airline spokesperson. President Obama is scheduled to make a statement at 11:30 EDT.
The 2014 International AIDS Conference is a gathering of the leading world advocates, researchers and doctors who are on the forefront of the treatment and search for a cure for HIV/AIDS. Many attendees were informed of the tragedy when they arrived in Melbourne where the conference is being held.
The following statement was issued by the International AIDS Society:
“The International AIDS Society expresses its sincere sadness receiving news that a number of colleagues and friends en route to attend the 20th International AIDS Conference taking place in Melbourne, Australia, were on board the Malaysian Airlines MH17 flight that has crashed over Ukraine earlier today,” said the International AIDS Society in a statement. “At this incredibly sad and sensitive time the IAS stands with our international family and sends condolences to the loved ones of those who have been lost to this tragedy.”
Reports that up to one hundred attendees were on the doomed flight have been unconfirmed. No matter how many have perished, it is clear that there will be a significant impact on the fight against the scourge of HIV/AIDS due to a loss of this potential magnitude.
LGBT Weekly will be updating this story as more information is available.
