GENEVA: The United Nations’ ambitious goal to largely eradicate AIDS by 2030 is facing significant challenges, according to Winnie Byanyima, the executive director of UNAIDS. Byanyima highlighted a global backlash against LGBTQ+ people and other marginalized groups as a major obstacle to achieving this goal. She emphasized that countries criminalizing gay and bisexual individuals, sex work, and drug users are witnessing increases or stagnation in HIV infections.
The situation is particularly alarming in regions where anti-human rights sentiments are prevalent. Byanyima pointed out that persistent HIV stigma, discrimination, and a lack of sex education further contribute to the discouraging numbers.
While progress has been observed in Africa, other regions, notably eastern Europe, are experiencing setbacks. Far-right leaders in countries like Poland, Hungary, and Russia, who often demonize and criminalize sexual minorities, are contributing to the persistence of HIV. Even countries like Italy and Argentina, with recently elected conservative leaders, are facing challenges due to stigmatization of individuals at risk of contracting HIV.
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Byanyima stressed that the UN’s goal to end AIDS is still possible but not guaranteed. To counter the challenges, she proposed a solution that involves supporting and funding local community organizations providing essential HIV resources, including treatment and prevention services.
In 2022, there were 39 million people living with HIV, with 1.3 million new infections. Approximately 30 million individuals were receiving antiretroviral treatment, but the disparity in access contributed to at least 630,000 AIDS-related deaths in the same year. The global community’s commitment to supporting local initiatives and addressing discrimination is crucial to overcoming the hurdles in the fight against AIDS.
