The President of the International AIDS Society (IAS), Beatriz Grinsztejn, has called for global solidarity to tackle HIV, emphasizing the need to ensure no one is left behind in the fight against the epidemic. Speaking on the occasion of World AIDS Day, Grinsztejn urged collaboration across science, policy, and activism under the theme, “Unite to Reach All.”
“We must unite science, policy, and activism to ensure that everyone can seamlessly access the support and care they require,” Grinsztejn stated.
As of 2023, an estimated 39.9 million people were living with HIV globally. Of this number, 5.4 million—roughly one in seven—remain unaware of their status, while 9.3 million, nearly one in four, are not receiving life-saving treatment.
Despite advancements in prevention, the goal of initiating 10 million people on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) by 2025 remains elusive, with only 7.5 million having started PrEP so far.
Barriers to Progress
The IAS highlighted the challenges in making new HIV prevention and treatment technologies, such as long-acting PrEP products cabotegravir and lenacapavir, widely accessible in low- and middle-income countries. High drug prices, restrictive licensing, and limited manufacturing capabilities are among the obstacles slowing progress.
“Ensuring that long-acting HIV treatments become accessible in the hardest-hit regions remains a distant prospect,” the IAS noted.
Grinsztejn stressed the need for collective voices, including scientists, healthcare providers, policymakers, civil society, and people living with and affected by HIV, to work together to ensure equitable access to advancements.
To mark World AIDS Day, the Journal of the International AIDS Society (JIAS) is publishing a critical viewpoint titled “The Ground Has Shifted Under PEPFAR—What Does That Mean for Its Future?” by Jennifer Kates, Brian Honermann, and Gregorio Millett.
World AIDS Day serves as a moment to reflect on progress, remember lives lost, and take action. Grinsztejn concluded:
“Progress is happening, but we can’t stop now. We need to unite to reach all to ensure that no one is left behind in the HIV response. Whether advocating for better healthcare access, sharing your story, or driving policy change, every action counts.”
