IAS Applauds US Senate Move To Safeguard PEPFAR, Urges Vigilance As Global Health Funding Hangs In the Balance
The International AIDS Society (IAS) has welcomed a bipartisan move in the US Senate to shield the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) from proposed $400 million cuts in President Trump’s rescission package.
But while this development is seen as a victory for global health, the fight isn’t over just yet — both chambers of Congress must still vote on the final package, with changes potentially reintroduced before the legal deadline.
“PEPFAR has been one of the greatest success stories in global health, transforming the HIV response,” IAS President Beatriz Grinsztejn stated. “This progress would not have been possible without the power of global advocacy, which reminded lawmakers that decisions about PEPFAR impact lives far beyond US borders. But uncertainty remains, and we must stay alert.”
IAS President-Elect Kenneth Ngure highlighted how crucial the funding is, especially for Africa. “PEPFAR is a lifeline for communities across the continent,” he said. “Restoring these funds offers renewed hope, but we must also centre African leadership in shaping the HIV response and push for sustainable, home-grown solutions to reduce reliance on external aid.”
The IAS is now urging world leaders to act decisively to protect essential HIV services and keep the momentum going through continued investment in global health.
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