A recent UNAIDS report, released in anticipation of World AIDS Day 2025, highlights alarming setbacks in the global response to HIV, marking the most serious disruption in decades. The report, titled 'Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,' outlines the drastic consequences of diminishing international funding and the breakdown of global cooperation, particularly for low and middle-income nations heavily impacted by HIV. These issues have been exacerbated by significant cuts in international HIV aid in 2025, leading to heightened funding deficiencies.
The report warns that failure to meet the 2030 global HIV targets under the next Global AIDS Strategy could lead to an estimated 3.3 million new HIV infections between 2025 and 2030. In January, the United States, which contributes 75% of international HIV funding, stopped its financial support. Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS, emphasized the dire need to address this funding crisis, stating that it underscores the fragility of the progress secured in the fight against HIV.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) foresees a 30-40% drop in external health assistance by 2025 compared to 2023, which threatens immediate disruption to health services in vulnerable communities. Access to vital HIV prevention methods, such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), has declined significantly, leading to a concerning protection gap affecting millions.
Currently, there are approximately 40.8 million individuals living with HIV globally, with 1.3 million new infections reported in 2024. The UNAIDS report indicates that treatment access remains a critical issue, with 9.2 million people lacking necessary care. Furthermore, the dismantling of tailored HIV prevention programs for young women has exacerbated their vulnerability, as evidenced by 570 new infections occurring daily among girls aged 15-24.
Community-led initiatives, essential in providing support to high-risk populations, have faced unprecedented challenges, including widespread program closures among women-led organizations. The crisis is particularly acute for marginalized groups, as the number of countries enforcing punitive laws against same-sex relationships and gender expression has risen for the first time since 2008. Additionally, movements limiting civil society, especially those advocating for key populations, are further obstructing access to critical HIV services.
Despite these challenges, some countries have initiated effective measures to address funding shortfalls. Several have reported stable or rising numbers of individuals starting antiretroviral therapy, thanks to proactive adaptations in service delivery. Moreover, innovative technological advancements in HIV prevention, such as biannual injections, hold promise in mitigating new infections.
Byanyima stressed the importance of political resolve to utilize available strategies and resources effectively, calling for a renewed commitment to community investment, prevention initiatives, and the safeguarding of human rights. She acknowledged, however, that while there are challenges, recent developments in 2025 offer a glimmer of hope for sustaining international financial support.
In conclusion, to prevent the erosion of decades of progress, it is crucial for global leaders to recommit to solidarity and collaborative action against HIV. Sustaining international funding for countries at risk is vital for ensuring a secure transition to home-grown financing solutions. With nearly two-thirds of the battle against HIV already fought, the time to reaffirm commitment and unity in combating AIDS is now, as millions of lives hang in the balance.