Overview
- The pledge sets UK support at £850m for 2026–28, down from £1bn in 2023–25 and £1.4bn in 2019.
- The government says the decision reflects the move to cut overseas aid to 0.3% of national income to prioritise defence and national security.
- Aid groups and several Labour MPs warn the reduction could cost roughly 250,000 lives and sets a worrying precedent, with advocates noting it is the first time a host country has lowered its Global Fund pledge.
- The UK will co-host the 21 November replenishment event in South Africa as the Global Fund seeks $18bn for the next three-year cycle.
- Frontline HIV services in countries such as Senegal report gaps after recent US reductions, and the UK’s lower pledge adds pressure on prevention, testing and support programmes.