Original Source: maktoobmedia.com
A recent report from the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) underscores the pivotal importance of human rights in combatting the AIDS pandemic and aims to eliminate it as a public health threat by 2030. Entitled “Take the rights path to end AIDS,” it emphasizes that stigma, discrimination, and harsh laws are significant obstacles in the ongoing fight against HIV.
The report highlights alarming statistics, revealing that in 2023 alone, 630,000 lives were lost to AIDS-related diseases, while 1.3 million new HIV infections occurred. Marginalized groups suffer the most, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where young women aged 15 to 24 are infected at an alarming rate, three times higher than their male counterparts. Globally, nearly 9.3 million people living with HIV lack access to crucial life-saving treatments.
The call to action emphasizes that governments must stop punishing vulnerable communities and instead uphold their human rights. With scientific advancements like long-acting injectable medicines shining a ray of hope, it is essential to ensure these vital health interventions reach those in need, creating an equitable landscape for all.
