About 100 HIV Researchers On Downed Malaysian Plane

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The Huffington Post reports that the Malaysian plane that was downed yesterday in Ukraine contained about 100 World Health Organization staffers who were on their way to a conference on AIDS in Melbourne, Australia. The International AIDS Society, which organized the event, released this message:

The International AIDS Society (IAS) today expresses its sincere sadness at receiving news that a number of colleagues and friends en route to attend the 20th International AIDS Conference taking place in Melbourne, Australia, were on board the Malaysian Airlines MH17 flight that has crashed over Ukraine earlier today. At this incredibly sad and sensitive time the IAS stands with our international family and sends condolences to the loved ones of those who have been lost to this tragedy.

It’s a tragedy. Head over to HuffPo to learn more about the victims, including Former IAS president Joep Lange, and avid AIDS campaigner Pim de Kuijer.