New Delhi, June 24: The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted a political declaration on HIV/AIDS, reaffirming its commitment to eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by the end of 2030.
This declaration received support from 149 countries, faced opposition from 8 nations, and saw 14 countries abstaining from the vote. Concerns were raised about the global community’s failure to meet the 2025 HIV targets and the lack of progress towards eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
The declaration reaffirms commitments made in previous declarations on HIV/AIDS from 2001, as well as those adopted in 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2021, alongside the goals set under the Sustainable Development Agenda.
Under this declaration, there is a commitment to take immediate action through a coordinated, evidence-based, and people-centered global HIV response over the next five years. It also emphasizes strengthening country leadership and ownership, promoting integrated and people-centered multi-sectoral national HIV programs to ensure services and impact beyond 2030.
According to the declaration, the UN General Assembly will hold a high-level meeting on HIV/AIDS in 2031 to review the progress made on commitments made in 2026. The aim is to assess advancements towards eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 and to maintain this achievement in the future.
Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of the UNAIDS, stated during the opening session of the meeting, “This political declaration is an opportunity to advance 25 years of commitment and demonstrate that multilateralism can deliver results by 2030.”
She emphasized, “We cannot afford to fail because we know what needs to be done—commit to multilateralism, sustain international financing while countries mobilize their resources, protect the rights of people affected by HIV, empower communities to lead, and promote science so that innovations reach those in need swiftly. If we take these steps, we can end AIDS.”
According to data released by UNAIDS in 2025, significant progress has been made in the fight against AIDS due to sustained investment, scientific advancements, and community-based efforts. Since 2010, AIDS-related deaths have decreased by 56%, new HIV infections have dropped by 43%, and among the 40.9 million people living with HIV, 32.1 million (approximately 78%) are now receiving treatment.
Leave a Comment