Research Participatory research and the development of user friendly didactic material are an important part of the work at COIN. Throughout our history we have carried out numerous research projects including base line studies, behaviour surveillance surveys (BSS), sero prevalence studies, monitoring and evaluation analysis, mapping exercises, situational analysis, and quantitative and qualitative studies. A full list of research studies carried out and educational material produced is listed in the section “Publications”. Vaccine Project The Vaccine Project was established to develop ethical research protocols for HIV vaccine development and trials. This is a joint endeavour carried out with the Institute of Dermatology and the Ministry of Health’s bureau for sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS (DIGECITSS). The research protocol provides detailed guidelines and ethical standards for carrying out scientific experiments, studies, trials or research projects. Timeline of Research Studies Conducted by COIN                                               Research Topic               Year   1. First epidemiological sero-prevalence study of HIV infection among sex workers, in coordination with PROCETS   1986   2. Qualitative studies (focus groups) with commercial sex workers   1989   3. Quantitative studies (KAP) with commercial sex workers   1989   4. Studies to inform the design of IEC strategies with commercial sex workers   1990   5. First KAP study to measure behaviour change associated with active educational research with male and female workers   1990   6. Studies to monitor the spontaneous dissemination of educational materials and preventive messages of the Project “Avancemos”   1990   7. Studies in the Bateyes Río and Puerto Haina, to measure behavioural strategies, COIN, CASCO   1991   8. Focus groups with sugar cane workers at Puerto de Haina, to measure risk of contracting STDs and HIV.   1991   9. First CCAP (KAP) study with industrial zone workers in Haina, Ingenio y Puerto   1992   10. Second CCAP (KAP) study with industrial zone workers in Haina, Ingenio y Puerto   1992   11. Second CCAP study with sex workers in Santo Domingo   1992   12. Third CCAP study for men (owners and administrators) working with commercial sex establishments   1992

PROGRAMMING  Forward Together "Forward Together” was the first project of its kind implemented in the Dominican Republic. It seeks to bring about behaviour change in relation to sexuality, sexual and reproductive health and condom use in sexual workers... Read more  Work and Health This innovative project brings information and services relating to STD/HIV/AIDS prevention to employees at the work place. Read more  CIMS The CIMS project is an integrated program of prevention, information, support and empowerment directed at migrants, potential women travellers, and other key players in countries of origin, transit and destination. Read More