UN Warns US Funding Cuts May Undo Progress in AIDS Fight

The halt to US foreign aid is a 'ticking time bomb' that could reverse decades of hard-fought gains in the fight against AIDS, the United Nations warned. Around 31.6 million people were on antiretroviral drugs in 2024, with deaths from AIDS-related illnesses halved since 2010. However, infections are likely to rise due to funding cuts shuttering prevention and treatment programs. The abrupt slashing of international aid by the US has left the global humanitarian community struggling to maintain life-saving operations.

UNAIDS warned that a permanent discontinuation of PEPFAR, the US effort to fight HIV/AIDS, could lead to millions of new infections and AIDS-related deaths. Over 60% of women-led HIV organizations have lost funding or suspended services. Crucial medical research on prevention and treatment has also been impacted, including in South Africa, a leader in global research.

Developing countries are striving to compensate for funding shortfalls with domestic resources. There is a call for debt relief and reform of international financial institutions to support developing countries in their responses. The global HIV response, built on grassroots activism, remains resilient and continues to save lives.

According to the source: The Economic Times.