Mishra urged, “Promise you will take your medicine for life,” in a landmark message for World AIDS Day. “Your medication is your greatest protection,” she added. The global HIV response for over 40 million people is facing its biggest setback in decades, as UNAIDS reported, with budget cuts disrupting prevention and treatment efforts. This World AIDS Day, the WHO called on governments and partners to expand access to new tools like lenacapavir (LEN) to reduce infections and counter disruptions from foreign aid reductions.
“We face significant challenges, with reductions in international funding and a blockage of prevention,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “At the same time, we have significant opportunities, with exciting new tools that could change the trajectory of the HIV epidemic.”
Despite funding setbacks, the global HIV response gained momentum in 2025. WHO shortlisted LEN, a highly effective twice-yearly injectable for HIV prevention, and received national regulatory approvals in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. WHO is working with partners to enable affordable access to LEN.
“By combining advances with decisive action, supporting communities, and removing barriers, we can ensure key and vulnerable populations have access to life-saving services,” said Tereza Kasaeva, head of WHO’s HIV and diseases department.
UNAIDS warned the number of people starting treatment had fallen in 13 countries, with over 60 percent of women-led organizations forced to suspend essential services. Communities are the driving force in the HIV response, providing education, support, and advocacy for treatment access. Ms. Mishra, from the National Coalition of People Living with HIV in India (NCPI+), emphasized the importance of peer support in overcoming stigma and reaching vulnerable populations with essential services. “We started this movement, but sustaining it long-term is a big question,” she said, stressing the need for strong networks to provide on-the-ground services and peer support.
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