International Rectal Microbicide Advocates (IRMA)

The International Rectal Microbicide Advocates (IRMA) is a global network of organizational and nonaffiliated individuals committed to supporting the mission of promoting and facilitating the research and development of safe and effective rectal microbicides for all those that need them. Convened by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, the Canadian AIDS Society, the Community HIV/AIDS Mobilization Project, and the Global Campaign for Microbicides in the spring of 2005, IRMA is currently a network numbering over 600 advocates, policymakers, and leading scientists from 46 countries on 6 continents working to advance a robust rectal microbicide research and development agenda. The Alliance supports the work of IRMA and participates as a network member.

The objectives of IRMA are (1) to advocate for accelerated research, development, and access to safe and effective rectal microbicides; (2) to promote rectal safety studies on all viable vaginal candidate microbicides; (3) to support, where appropriate, the research of other new prevention technologies, such as male circumcision, vaccines, and PrEP, and to promote existing prevention methods such as male and female condoms as part of a range of prevention options; (4) to serve as a central forum for exchange, debate, and networking on rectal microbicides; and (5) to convene diverse perspectives and scientific disciplines to improve understanding and action around rectal microbicide research and development.

Regular communications include a moderated listserv and international teleconferences featuring the latest in rectal microbicide research. Rectal Microbicides: Investments & Advocacy was published and released by IRMA at the Microbicides 2006 conference in Cape Town, South Africa. Less Silence, More Science - Advocacy to Make Rectal Microbicides a Reality was released in New Delhi at Microbicides 2008. Additional publications and information can found on IRMA's website.