On the occasion of World AIDS Day, observed on December 1, volunteers from the Bulgarian Red Cross Youth in Sofia will light tealights on the Lovers' Bridge to form a ribbon representing solidarity with the victims and carriers of the disease.

Throughout the day, the Bulgarian Red Cross and the Sofia Regional Health Inspectorate will organize various events, including a campaign to prevent risky sexual behavior with workshops, the distribution of informational materials, ect. People will be able to get tested for HIV/AIDS for free at two anonymous testing points. These points will be located in front of the National Palace of Culture’s pylons and in one of the major shopping centers.

Experts will also inform citizens about the specific aspects of HIV and AIDS. The initiative is part of the national anti-AIDS campaign under the motto “Spread the knowledge, not the virus”.

• A quarter of Bulgarians are willing to maintain friendships with HIV-positive people