“It’s like adding fuel to an already burning fire,” says Aditia Taslim, Advocacy Lead for the Asia Pacific Network of People Living with HIV (APN+). “We have not yet recovered from the impact of the US funding cuts earlier this year, and closing down UNAIDS prematurely will only make things worse, especially for key populations and other criminalized groups, including people who use drugs.”
These words from Taslim ring true for many around the world who are fighting against HIV/AIDS. The recent announcement of the potential closure of UNAIDS, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, has sparked concern and fear among those who rely on its support and services.
UNAIDS, established in 1996, has been a critical force in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. Its mission is to lead, strengthen and support an expanded response to the epidemic, including preventing new HIV infections, providing treatment and care for those living with HIV, and advocating for the rights of those affected by the disease. Through its partnerships with governments, civil society organizations, and other UN agencies, UNAIDS has made significant progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
But now, with the potential closure of UNAIDS, all this progress is at risk. The organization is facing a severe funding shortfall, with the United States, its largest contributor, announcing a massive cut in its funding earlier this year. This has left UNAIDS struggling to continue its operations and provide vital support to those in need.
The impact of this funding cut has already been felt by many communities around the world. In Asia, where the HIV epidemic is still growing, the closure of UNAIDS would be catastrophic. Key populations, such as men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, sex workers, and people who inject drugs, are already facing discrimination and criminalization. Without the support of UNAIDS, these marginalized communities would be left even more vulnerable to HIV, with limited access to prevention, treatment, and care services.
In the words of Taslim, closing down UNAIDS prematurely would be like adding fuel to an already burning fire. It would undo all the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS and leave those most in need without any support or hope for the future.
But there is still hope. The decision to close down UNAIDS is not yet final, and there is still time for the international community to step up and show its support for this crucial organization. As Taslim says, “We need to remind the world that UNAIDS plays a vital role in the global response to HIV/AIDS, and its closure would have a devastating impact on the lives of millions.”
The closure of UNAIDS would not only affect those living with HIV, but it would also have a ripple effect on other public health issues. UNAIDS has been at the forefront of developing innovative strategies and programs to address other diseases, such as tuberculosis and hepatitis, which often coexist with HIV. Its closure would not only jeopardize the progress made in the fight against HIV but also hinder efforts to combat these other diseases.
Moreover, UNAIDS has been a critical advocate for the rights of those affected by HIV/AIDS. It has worked tirelessly to reduce stigma and discrimination, promote gender equality, and ensure access to health services for all. Its closure would be a significant setback for the human rights agenda and leave millions without a voice.
As the world observes World AIDS Day on December 1st, we must remember that the fight against HIV/AIDS is far from over. We cannot afford to lose the progress made and risk the lives of millions by allowing UNAIDS to close down prematurely.
It is time for the global community to come together and show its support for UNAIDS. Governments must step up their funding commitments, and the private sector and individuals must also contribute to ensure the continuation of UNAIDS’ vital work. We must all stand in solidarity with those affected by HIV/AIDS and demand that UNAIDS remains open and fully funded.
As Taslim says, “We cannot let UNAIDS close down. We need it now more than ever.” Let us take action and ensure that UNAIDS continues to be a beacon of hope for those affected by HIV/AIDS, and together, we can end this epidemic once and for all.
