Take the rights path to end AIDS — World AIDS Day report 2024

Foreword by Winnie Byanyima

The HIV response has progressed so much that ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 is achievable. Advances in HIV prevention and treatment services are tied to progress in protecting human rights, which has also driven broader health rights improvements.

However, gaps in human rights realization are hindering the path to ending AIDS and damaging public health. In 2023, 1.3 million people newly acquired HIV—three times the 2025 global target of no more than 370,000. Lifesaving programs must be accessible without fear to those who need them.

When girls are denied education, gender-based violence goes unpunished, or people face discrimination for who they are or whom they love, access to essential HIV services is blocked. Harmful laws, policies, and stigma obstruct prevention, testing, treatment, and care. Such barriers also hinder the work of those providing HIV services or advocating for change.

Only rights can address these challenges. Urgent action is needed to remove harmful laws and to enact measures that uphold the rights of people impacted by HIV and AIDS. Acceptance, respect, and care are vital for effective HIV programs.

This report highlights actionable solutions. It showcases successful policies and programs protecting health and rights globally, shares case studies and insights, and outlines recommendations to get the world on track to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

The HIV response is at a crossroads. We can end AIDS—if we take the rights path. Let us walk it together.