UNAIDS leads World AIDS Day call to ‘Take the Rights Path’

On the occasion of World AIDS Day 2024, UNAIDS India Country Office highlights the crucial role of key communities in the HIV response, emphasizing their leadership in shaping policies, dismantling barriers, and paving the way towards ending AIDS by 2030. This year’s theme, “Take the Right Path,” underscores the importance of inclusive, people-centered action, with a focus on empowering those most affected by HIV to take charge of their futures.

As part of this year’s commemoration, UNAIDS India amplifies the voices and stories of people living with HIV (PLHIV), sex workers (SWs), transgender persons (TGs), young key populations (YKPs), people who inject drugs (PWID), and the LGBTQ+ community. These voices, often marginalized, are integral in understanding the barriers that hinder access to care and in designing solutions that ensure a more inclusive and equitable response.
 

UNAIDS has long advocated for placing the voices of communities at the heart of decision-making. Communities have not only mobilized to demand better access to services but have also worked tirelessly to shape attitudes, change laws, and influence political will. Their resilience forms the foundation of a movement that has made significant strides in combating the HIV epidemic. 

"Sometimes it’s better to disclose in a small circle; it makes us feel comfortable," said one of the young people living with HIV. Through peer-led prevention efforts and open conversations around HIV status, she is helping others find their voice in the fight against stigma. This example, among many others, reflects the heart of UNAIDS India's efforts to ensure that these communities are not only heard but also actively involved in creating solutions for the HIV response. The Global AIDS strategy calls for the 80% of prevention services to be delivered by community–led organizations which are the best places to reach key populations at risk.

UNAIDS India is also committed towards working for the rights of people living with HIV or are at the risk of HIV. UNAIDS this year voices examples from around the world of proven policies and programmes that are succeeding in protecting health and HIV services by protecting rights. These voices highlight mutual understanding and collaborative efforts toward overcoming barriers, whether they be legal, social, or economic. 
 

As UNAIDS continues to promote the integration of community-led approaches in the HIV response, UNAIDS India aims to achieve the following key milestones:

1. Mainstreaming Voices: Amplifying and channeling the stories of key communities at the national, regional, and global levels.
2. Strengthening Dialogue: Enhancing communication and partnership between communities, institutions, and key stakeholders.
3. Public Awareness: Increasing public awareness about the need for an inclusive HIV response and the pivotal role that key communities play in it.
    

This World AIDS Day, UNAIDS India calls on everyone to take the right path—by standing alongside those who are most affected by HIV and advocating for an AIDS-free future.  Together, we can ensure that the journey toward ending AIDS is not just a goal but a reality.

About UNAIDS: UNAIDS is the leading global organization advocating for an end to the AIDS epidemic. Through its strategic partnerships and grassroots efforts, UNAIDS works to promote HIV prevention, increase access to care, and ensure the human rights of people living with HIV are respected.