Whenever an individual, family or organization is confronted with the HIV/AIDS epidemic, they always react. In many cases, the first reaction is spontaneous and does not necessarily respond effectively to the epidemic. Many community-based and non-governmental organizations (CBOs & NGOs) have therefore gone through a process of "learning by doing" in order to move from a simple reaction to a true response.

This process is on-going because the HIV/AIDS epidemic continually confronts us with challenges which profoundly affect different aspects of human life and which necessitate a deep understanding of social and economic issues in the broadest sense. These issues are quite similar in essence but vary in their expressions in different parts of the world. Consequently, the responses vary but each one constitutes an interesting experience which can inspire others.

Ten years into the epidemic, CBOs and NGOs around the world are quite familiar with these kinds of experiences. Convinced more than ever of the importance of their contribution in combating HIV/AIDS, they are becoming increasingly active in networking in addition to implementing their respective programmes. By doing so, they can draw lessons from successful programmes as well as failures in order to improve their own responses.

The spaces are organized in different ways, including informal consultations and exchanges, loose and flexible coordinating mechanisms and structured national and international bodies. Individuals are also devoting time, energy and skills to linking and connecting people, organizations and institutions without being in any structured networks. There are specific thematic networks covering women's and youth issues, homosexuality, culture and development, all in relation to HIV/AIDS. There are also geographical networks with a national or international dimension which cover the different themes constituting their members' domains of action. All these valuable efforts involve support, solidarity, commitment and altruism so as to provide efficiency and strength.

Networking also implies that CBOs and NGOs are involved in a movement for social change. Such a movement will naturally intersect with other actors (e.g., decision-makers, donors), whose agendas and priorities sometimes affect CBO/NGO networks. The HIV/AIDS epidemic is revealing in that it reaffirms the necessities which put CBOs/NGOs in the spotlight. It is important that the other actors acknowledge that the participation of CBOs/NGOs - civil society - in the process of socio-economic development is vital. For their part, CBOs/NGOs need to strengthen themselves and one another so as to contribute what they can, while remaining vigilant so that all of the burden is not shifted to their shoulders.

Networking is extremely important but we must "de-mystify" it first. It is obviously not a panacea but it is certainly a way to establish alternative means of cooperation. These different ways of working together will continue to lead to the creation of different networks, where solidarity and respect are needed so that competition does not become destructive. Indeed, networking is more important than the networks themselves. Let us remind ourselves each instant that our efforts only make sense if they combat HIV/AIDS and contribute to the well-being of people and their communities.