Cambodia and Laos Unite to Accelerate HIV Epidemic Response
UNAIDS and UNFPA Strengthen Collaboration to Achieve 2030 HIV Goals
Cambodia and Laos are intensifying their efforts to end the HIV epidemic, with UNAIDS data indicating that eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 is achievable if existing gaps are addressed. Recent collaborative initiatives, including a UNAIDS and UNFPA-facilitated learning exchange, saw 18 delegates from nine Lao institutions visit Cambodia to learn from its successful HIV prevention strategies. Cambodia has already made significant strides, achieving 89-99-98 of the “95-95-95 goals,” which aim to diagnose, treat, and achieve viral suppression for 95 percent of all people living with HIV by 2030. These achievements highlight the effectiveness of community-led services and innovative approaches in bridging gaps in HIV prevention.
Key initiatives under Cambodia’s National Policy for Ending AIDS and the Sustainability of HIV Programme 2023-2028 focus on identifying and treating nearly 10,000 undiagnosed individuals living with HIV. Efforts also include Comprehensive Sexuality Education aimed at young people, particularly those at higher risk, to promote safe practices and reduce stigma. In Cambodia, 43 percent of new HIV infections occur among individuals aged 15-24, a similar trend observed in Laos. Both countries are committed to addressing the legal, social, and gender-related barriers that hinder access to HIV prevention, treatment, and support services, ensuring that no one is left behind.
UNAIDS and UNFPA are working closely with the governments of Cambodia and Laos, along with civil society and community stakeholders, to sustain and expand HIV response efforts. By advocating for the rights of people living with HIV and eliminating stigma and discrimination, these organizations aim to create an environment where all young people have the knowledge and resources to make informed, healthy choices. This united approach is critical for achieving the 95-95-95 targets and ultimately ending the AIDS epidemic in Southeast Asia.
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Key initiatives under Cambodia’s National Policy for Ending AIDS and the Sustainability of HIV Programme 2023-2028 focus on identifying and treating nearly 10,000 undiagnosed individuals living with HIV. Efforts also include Comprehensive Sexuality Education aimed at young people, particularly those at higher risk, to promote safe practices and reduce stigma. In Cambodia, 43 percent of new HIV infections occur among individuals aged 15-24, a similar trend observed in Laos. Both countries are committed to addressing the legal, social, and gender-related barriers that hinder access to HIV prevention, treatment, and support services, ensuring that no one is left behind.
UNAIDS and UNFPA are working closely with the governments of Cambodia and Laos, along with civil society and community stakeholders, to sustain and expand HIV response efforts. By advocating for the rights of people living with HIV and eliminating stigma and discrimination, these organizations aim to create an environment where all young people have the knowledge and resources to make informed, healthy choices. This united approach is critical for achieving the 95-95-95 targets and ultimately ending the AIDS epidemic in Southeast Asia.
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