Statement on the impact of PEPFAR funding cuts

A statement from National AIDS Trust following reports of potential cuts to PEPFAR funding, which provides treatment and services to millions of people overseas.

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This week it was announced that the US Government would freeze funding to PEPFAR, the world’s leading HIV initiative which directly supports more than 20 million people living with HIV, representing two-thirds of all people receiving HIV treatment globally. Though it has since been announced that the freeze to antiretroviral treatment funding would be lifted, clarity is needed as to whether other vital parts of PEPFAR’s work will continue to be funded.

National AIDS Trust have signed an open letter from STOPAIDS which urges the UK Government to raise the concerns of the HIV sector with the US Government.

Robbie Currie, Chief Executive of National AIDS Trust, said:

“We are pleased that the US Government has lifted the temporary funding freeze of PEPFAR’s programme which sends antiretroviral treatments to several countries. However, we are concerned that it is unclear whether this will also apply to other crucial strands of PEPFAR’s work, namely the funding of HIV prevention methods and community support services. Without these interventions, the health of millions people could be put at risk.

“Alongside our colleagues and allies in the HIV sector in the UK and around the world, we appeal to the United States to continue all PEPFAR funding as we work toward our shared goal of ending new HIV transmissions. The progress made on effective HIV prevention and treatment medication over the last 30 years has been a historic success for science and for society – one which has been driven in significant part by the contribution of the United States. The potential cuts to PEPFAR interventions put the achievements of this global effort at risk, and we stand with everyone who will be affected.

“We support calls to the UK Government to raise these concerns with the US Government and to urge them to continue this vital programme.”