Foundation for Social Education (FES)

Foundation for Social Education (FES): Pioneering Sexual Health and HIV Advocacy in Poland

The Foundation for Social Education (Fundacja Edukacji Społecznej - FES), based in Poland, is a leading non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing public health and psychosexual education. With over two decades of experience, FES operates at the forefront of HIV prevention, stigma reduction, and community support, making it a highly strategic partner within the SHAPERs Network.

Comprehensive Support and Accessible Testing

A core component of the foundation's mission is ensuring universal access to sexual health services. FES provides free, anonymous screening for HIV, syphilis, and HCV through dedicated testing centers across Poland. To overcome geographical and social barriers, the organization has also pioneered innovative self-testing campaigns, allowing individuals to securely order rapid HIV tests directly to their homes.

Beyond prevention, the Foundation for Social Education delivers critical psychosocial, legal, and social support for people living with HIV. This holistic approach ensures that clinical care is paired with the structural and emotional support necessary for maintaining a high quality of life.

Strategic Integration within the SHAPERs Network

As an initiative of the GSSG Foundation, the SHAPE (Sexual Health Advocacy, Peer Engagement - Europe) network thrives on cross-border collaboration and peer-led expertise. FES brings profound regional insight and operational excellence to this European coalition.

Through its active involvement in political advocacy, public education, and tracking legal barriers such as HIV criminalization, FES strengthens the network's capacity to drive systemic change. The organization acts as a crucial Eastern European node, facilitating the exchange of best practices in non-formal education, peer engagement, and community-based health initiatives.

Driving Policy and Breaking Stigma

The Foundation for Social Education works tirelessly to ensure that sexual health and HIV care remain prominent priorities in both national and European policy frameworks. By addressing the root causes of discrimination and fostering intersectoral collaboration, FES perfectly mirrors the core values of the SHAPERs community. The organization's commitment to combining scientific awareness with lived experience empowers individuals and transforms public health landscapes.

For further details regarding their ongoing campaigns, educational resources, and testing initiatives, the official website can be visited at fes.edu.pl.