Message from the UN Secretary General to mark World Aids Day

World Aids Day is commemorated annually on December 1.

The following message was issued by the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres to mark the observance.

“On this World AIDS Day we focus attention on the inequalities that drive HIV and AIDS.

It is still possible to end the epidemic by 2030. But that will require stepped up action and greater solidarity.

The United Nations General Assembly recently adopted a bold new plan to accelerate progress, including new targets for 2025.

To beat AIDS – and build resilience against the pandemics of tomorrow – we need collective action.

That includes harnessing the leadership of communities to drive change, combatting stigma, and eliminating discriminatory and punitive laws, policies and practices.

We must also dismantle financial barriers to health care and increase investment in vital public services to achieve Universal Health Coverage for everyone, everywhere.

This will ensure equal access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment and care, including COVID-19 vaccinations and services.

Together, let us recommit to end inequalities and end AIDS.