The global HIV and AIDS epidemic has posed one of the most formidable health challenges in recent history. However, medical advances and a concerted global effort to combat the epidemic have resulted in dramatic successes. The astonishing ability of antiretroviral medications to control the virus, coupled with improved testing, access and early initiation of medication has turned what had previously been a lethal virus into a manageable illness. While this means that we have all the tools to end the epidemic, we have not crossed the finish line just yet.
The UK is the second largest donor to the global HIV and AIDS response. The Department for International Development (DfID) has played an instrumental role in by supporting multilateral institutions such as the Global Fund as well as by displaying progressive political leadership in the international arena. However, the commitment to ending AIDS by 2030 - in line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals - has started to wane with HIV slipping down the priority list. This can be seen be declining financial contributions as well as HIV being integrated into broader programmes.
I recently attended the Conservative Party Conference as a member of a STOPAIDS delegation. Our core message was to remind politicians that 'It Ain't Over' - the epidemic is far from over and requires renewed financial, programmatic and political commitment from the UK. Globally, the HIV epidemic has required a united response that cuts across party lines and different administrations. An epidemic of this magnitude has required multisectoral collaboration with strong political leadership; when this has been lacking, it has led to disastrous consequences and has resulted in a proliferation of the epidemic.
During the conference I had a chance to chat to the Secretary of State for International Development, Priti Patel. We spoke about the impact HIV and AIDS have had on vulnerable populations such as women and girls as well as key populations such as men who have sex with men. I expressed that stigma and discrimination linked to HIV continues to create significant barriers to accessing testing and treatment services in places such as my home country, South Africa. Thus, despite medical advances, social conditions continue to aid the spread of the virus. As the UK has been a champion for those in disempowered positions and those most affected by the epidemic, I emphasised that it is crucial that this work continue.
As Charlize Theron passionately asked at the International AIDS Conference 2016:
'The truth is, we have every tool we need to prevent the spread of HIV. Every tool we need. Condoms. PrEP. PEP. ART. Awareness. Education... Why haven't we beaten this epidemic?'
Now is not the time to become complacent. 2030 is fast approaching and efforts need to be redoubled, not reduced.