HIV and AIDS: Despite Funding Setbacks, Global Prevention Efforts Show Promising Progress
HIV and AIDS Update 2025: Progress in Prevention Despite Global Funding Challenges
As the world marked World AIDS Day, global health advocates renewed their call for sustained action, stronger community support, and wider access to prevention tools.
During an awareness event, Ms. Mishra, a long-time community health advocate, shared an emotional message with those undergoing treatment:
“Promise that you will take your medicines lifelong. Your medicine is your biggest protection.”
Her message reflects the determination of millions of people working on the frontline of HIV support. But even as community-led efforts continue, global funding cuts are creating serious challenges, according to UNAIDS, which aims to end the HIV epidemic by 2030.
Despite the financial setbacks, 2025 has also brought meaningful progress, giving hope to millions worldwide.
New Tools Strengthen the Fight Against HIV
This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged governments and global partners to expand access to new WHO-approved prevention tools, including lenacapavir (LEN) — a long-acting, twice-yearly injectable medication designed to help reduce new HIV infections.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said:
“We face significant challenges with cuts to international funding, and prevention stalling. At the same time, we have significant opportunities, with exciting new tools that can change the trajectory of the HIV epidemic.”
In October 2025, WHO officially prequalified LEN for HIV prevention, paving the way for broader distribution. Soon after, regulatory approvals followed in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia, marking a major step toward increasing access in regions with high demand.
WHO is also collaborating with partners to work toward affordable access in more countries, reinforcing the importance of equitable health solutions.
Tereza Kasaeva, Director of WHO’s Department for HIV and other diseases, emphasized the importance of action:
“By pairing these advances with strong community support and removing structural barriers, we can ensure that key and vulnerable populations have full access to essential services.”
Communities Remain the Backbone of HIV Response
Even with scientific progress, the heart of the global HIV response lies in communities, peer networks, and local organizations. UNAIDS recently reported concerning trends:
- The number of people beginning HIV treatment has fallen across 13 countries.
- Over 60% of women-led organizations working on HIV issues have had to suspend certain services due to funding challenges.
These community groups are often the first point of connection for people living with HIV, providing essential support, awareness, and advocacy.
Speaking to UN News, Ms. Mishra emphasized the significance of peer-led support:
“The pain, fear, and mental pressure that we ourselves have felt helps us understand how important peer support is in anyone’s life.”
In India, organizations like the National Coalition of People Living with HIV (NCPI+) play a crucial role. They work to reduce stigma, support vulnerable populations, and facilitate access to treatment and prevention services.
Yet, sustainability remains a concern.
“We have started this movement, but keeping it going long-term is a big challenge. Without strong networks, we cannot reach youth, provide peer support, or run services effectively,” Ms. Mishra noted.
The Way Forward
The global HIV response faces a dual reality: funding cuts and service disruptions, but also breakthrough prevention tools and renewed community-driven strength. As WHO, UNAIDS, and grassroots groups continue to collaborate, the focus remains clear — ensuring that every person, regardless of location or background, can access the support they need.
Sustained investment, stronger health systems, and empowered communities will be essential in keeping the world on track toward the 2030 target of ending the HIV epidemic.
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