Global HIV Fight at a Crossroads as Progress Risks Stalling

Despite significant advancements, financial challenges, inequities, and rising infections in some regions threaten the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

HIV-related deaths have decreased by 69% since their peak in 2004, but 630,000 people still died of AIDS-related causes in 2023, highlighting ongoing challenges.
Eastern and southern Africa have seen significant progress, with several countries achieving high rates of testing, treatment, and viral suppression, but other regions, such as Eastern Europe and Central Asia, are experiencing rising infections.
Declining global funding and political commitment jeopardize efforts to meet the United Nations' goal of reducing new infections and AIDS-related deaths by over 90% by 2030.
Innovative prevention tools, such as the dapivirine vaginal ring and long-acting injectable drugs, have the potential to significantly reduce new infections but require equitable access and affordability to be effective.
Experts call for increased investment in local pharmaceutical production, sustainable funding models, and addressing stigma and discrimination to ensure long-term success in combating HIV globally.