World AIDS Day: Our commitment to equity and innovation in the fight against HIV

Decades of progress have transformed HIV for those who access the tools that turn HIV into a chronic condition instead of a death penalty. Millions of lives have been saved and health systems strengthened through solidarity, innovation and sustained investment. Yet as the world enters the final stretch toward ending AIDS as a public health threat, momentum is slowing. New infections, which had plateaued in recent years, are now expected to rise following recent funding disruptions, placing hard-won gains at even greater risk. 

Ahead of World AIDS Day, and in line with this year’s theme, “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” Unitaid reflects on what it will take to protect these achievements and continue expanding equitable access to best-in class HIV prevention, testing and treatments. The world already has the tools needed to end the epidemic but realizing that potential depends on ensuring those tools reach everyone who needs them, without delay. 

The current global environment is testing global commitments. The suspension and reduction of international aid and development funding have disrupted access to essential health services for people affected by HIV, tuberculosis and malaria, and other major diseases affecting the most vulnerable. These funding cuts have deepened inequities, particularly for women, children and marginalized populations. In response, Unitaid continues to work closely with partners, countries and communities to safeguard access to critical health innovations. We continue to monitor the implications of these funding shifts, identifying gaps in supply and markets, and adapting our portfolio to ensure that lifesaving innovations continue to reach those who need them most. 

Unitaid’s response to these disruptions reflects the transformation that the global AIDS response now demands. Prevention remains essential, and Unitaid is working with partners to expand access to a full range of HIV prevention tools, from oral PrEP to long-acting options like injectable lenacapavir. Recent agreements with generic manufacturers will lower prices and increase supply, while Unitaid is also supporting countries to plan cost-effective, high-impact delivery approaches so these innovations can be introduced efficiently in a constrained funding environment. Collaboration with governments, communities and civil society remains vital to ensure rapid and equitable rollout. 

At the same time, Unitaid is strengthening care for people living with HIV by expanding access to optimal diagnostics and treatment for advanced HIV disease to reduce preventable deaths. These efforts are reinforced by investments in regional manufacturing that are helping expand regional production of essential diagnostics and medicines, lower prices and improve supply security. Initiatives such as DIATROPIX in Senegal highlight how regional manufacturing can secure access today while strengthening resilience for the future.  

The global HIV response stands at a crossroads. Ahead of World AIDS Day, Unitaid calls for renewed solidarity and sustained political and financial commitment. The tools to end HIV exist. The task now is to deliver them to everyone who needs them and to protect access in an increasingly uncertain world.