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-Editorial
A new UNAIDS report underscores that ending the AIDS pandemic by 2030 is achievable but hinges on critical actions by world leaders. The report, The Urgency of Now: AIDS at a Crossroads, reveals that the next few months will be pivotal in determining whether global targets are met.
Despite significant progress, the world is currently off track. Out of 39.9 million people living with HIV, 9.3 million are not receiving necessary treatment, leading to a death every minute from AIDS-related causes. New HIV infections remain alarmingly high, with 1.3 million cases in 2023, far exceeding the target of under 370,000 annual new infections by 2025.
UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima emphasizes that fulfilling the pledge to end AIDS requires substantial resource allocation and protection of human rights. “Leaders can save millions of lives and prevent new infections if they act now,” Byanyima stated.
The report highlights that without adequate funding and human rights protections, the number of people needing lifelong treatment could rise to 46 million by 2050. However, if current efforts continue and are bolstered, this number could stabilize at 29 million.
Although treatment coverage has significantly improved since 2010, with 30.7 million people now on antiretroviral therapy, the world remains behind on the 2025 target to reduce AIDS-related deaths to below 250,000. Progress in preventing new infections has slowed, particularly in regions like the Middle East and North Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and Latin America.
Dr. Anthony Fauci stresses the need for ongoing, united efforts to combat the epidemic. “Failure is not an option. If we work together, we can achieve our goal,” he said.
The report also highlights the exacerbation of gender inequality and stigma as major barriers to effective prevention and treatment. Marginalized communities, including sex workers and people who inject drugs, face significant obstacles in accessing care. Current funding levels for these groups are insufficient, with only 2.6% of total HIV spending allocated to key populations in 2023.
Resource mobilization is critical, especially in regions with rising HIV rates and decreasing funding. In 2023, HIV resources fell short by $9.5 billion of the required amount, with domestic funding in low- and middle-income countries declining for the fourth consecutive year.
The report concludes that the decisions made this year will determine if global targets are met and if AIDS is ended as a public health threat by 2030. “The time to choose the right path is now,” Byanyima urged.
