December 1, 2023

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Iran, stands alongside other UN agencies to reflect on the progress and challenges in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. Recognizing that millions remain vulnerable to HIV infection, Mr. Abdel-Ahad - The representative a.i. of the UNFPA Country Office in Iran- emphasized the persistent impact of stigma and discrimination in hindering individuals' rights to information and services for preventing and treating HIV.

In a united front, UNFPA Iran, as a cosponsor of UNAIDS, collaborates with the Ministry of Health and Medical Education to reiterate their commitment to the shared goal of ending the AIDS epidemic. In a statement,  The representative a.i. of the UNFPA Iran underscored the significance of this year's theme, "Let Communities Lead," highlighting the crucial role that communities play in raising awareness and providing support to people living with HIV.

The vision of zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination, and zero AIDS-related deaths is central to UNFPA's mission of achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health. Abdel-Ahad emphasized that preventing HIV is integral to ensuring that no one is left behind, aligning with UNFPA's commitment to universal access and inclusivity.

As part of the Joint United Nations Team on AIDS (JUNTA), UNFPA Iran stands at the forefront of the global effort, acknowledging the need for long-term investments to combat HIV/AIDS effectively. On this World AIDS Day, the joint reflection serves as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to address the challenges ahead and work towards a world where the AIDS epidemic is a thing of the past.