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2024.12.01
Seoul
World AIDS Day
Jaqueline Perez Gamboa
Every year on December 1st since 1988, the world commemorates World AIDS Day. On this day, global efforts are united to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and advocate for the continuous fight for human rights for all people. It is estimated that around 39 million people worldwide are living with the virus. Despite recent medical and technological advancements, just 30 million are receiving treatment, however, las year alone, an estimates 630 000 people died from AIDS-related causes.
Given these numbers, World AIDS Day remains a critical opportunity to spotlight the ongoing challenges posed by the virus. Over the past 40 years, the World Health Organization (WHO) has spearheaded global prevention campaigns worked to establish healthcare services, and advocated for universal access to healthcare for people living with HIV/AIDS.
This year, the WHO’s campaign focuses on the recognition of the right to health for people living with HIV/AIDS. Through initiatives like this, efforts aim to ensure that economic inequality, political challenges, and prejudice do not obstruct access to healthcare and necessary treatments. This campaign aligns with UNAIDS’ 2025 goals, which concentrate on providing sustainable tools to deliver healthcare services to the communities most affected by HIV and integrating HIV/AIDS care into broader health services.
Beyond healthcare access, individuals living with HIV/AIDS continue to face significant societal challenges, including stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. Misconceptions and fear surrounding the virus perpetuate harmful attitudes that isolate those affected, limiting their opportunities for employment, education, and even community participation. In some countries, these discriminatory practices are institutionalized, with laws that criminalize people living with the virus, further exacerbating their vulnerability.
Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort to promote education and awareness, dismantle harmful stereotypes, and enact protective legislation to safeguard the rights of affected individuals.
World AIDS Day serves not only as a moment for reflection but also as a call to action. It reminds that while significant progress has been made, much work remains to achieve a future free from the burden of HIV/AIDS. This day calls for global solidarity and collective responsibility to confront the structural barriers that hinder progress - whether they stem from economic inequality, gender disparities, or social stigma.
Written by Jaqueline Perez Gamboa for Yonsei GSIS Human Rights Hub
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