Forest livelihood brief from the Center for International Forestry Research. Also available in French.

Key messages are:

• HIV/AIDS is having devastating impacts around the world, with southern Africa being particularly hard hit.
• Significant numbers of households and families in this region are undergoing dramatic social and livelihood change and suffering extreme poverty as a consequence of this disease.
• Recent studies suggest that forests can act as safety nets to help mitigate the negative impacts of HIV/AIDS and boost food security.
• However, we need to ensure that forest contributions are recognised and supported by governments, policy makers, donors, development organisations and markets.