UNAIDS World Aids Day Report 2011

We are on the verge of a significant breakthrough in the AIDS response. The vision of a world with zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination, and zero AIDS-related deaths has captured the imagination of diverse partners, stakeholders and people living with and affected by HIV. New HIV infections continue to fall and more people than ever are starting treatment. With research giving us solid evidence that antiretroviral therapy can prevent new HIV infections, it is encouraging that 6.6 million people are now receiving treatment in low- and middle-income countries: nearly half those eligible.

Just a few years ago, talking about ending the AIDS epidemic in the near term seemed impossible, but science, political support and community responses are starting to deliver clear and tangible results.

Yet, to be effective, the AIDS response must be transformed. We need to move from a short-term, piecemeal approach to a long-term strategic response with matching investment. The road map for this vision is clear. The United Nations General Assembly set bold new targets in its historic 2011 Political Declaration on HIV/AIDS: Intensifying Our Efforts to Eliminate HIV/AIDS, with a focus on clear, time-bound goals designed to bring about the end of HIV and also improve human health across diverse communities.

To reach these targets and bring the end of AIDS in sight we must step on the accelerator. Joining with partners, UNAIDS has mapped a new framework for AIDS investments, focused on high-impact, high-value strategies.

The world cannot live up to the targets and spirit of the Political Declaration unless countries and donors commit to using the tools available, focusing them on the most effective programmes and investing accordingly.

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