Piece written by Tony Huynh, HIV Policy Intern at Georgia Equality.

Each year on December 1, communities around the world pause to honor World AIDS Day. It is a day of remembrance, education, and renewed commitment in the global response to HIV and AIDS. First observed in 1988, World AIDS Day was the very first international health day, created to raise awareness about the HIV epidemic, address stigma, and support people living with or affected by HIV.

World AIDS Day 2025 is uniquely different, though. For the first time since its founding, the federal government has decided to not recognize World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day reminds us of the millions of lives lost to AIDS related illnesses, the strength of people living with HIV, and the efforts of activists, caregivers, and medical professionals who have worked for care, dignity, and justice for more than four decades– and the choice of the federal government to ignore this meaningful day is especially disrespectful amid the ongoing challenges to our collective fight to end the HIV epidemic.

World AIDS Day should also highlight the progress that has been made, including life-saving antiretroviral treatments and ongoing research focused on prevention and a future cure. However, many people still face barriers to testing, treatment, and safe and welcoming health care. Stigma, discrimination, and misinformation continue to stand in the way of health equity.

As we reflect this year, we are encouraged to carry forward the purpose of World AIDS Day: to honor those we have lost, support those living with HIV, challenge stigma whenever it appears, and recommit ourselves to building a future where everyone has access to the care, compassion, and the respect they deserve.

World AIDS Day remains more critical than ever as global momentum in the HIV response faces serious threats. Many regions, nowadays, are experiencing funding cuts that directly impact several prevention programs, testing access, and community outreach networks. Prevention efforts, community-led services, and access to medications are all feeling the strain, creating dangerous gaps in care. These setbacks come at a time when many organizations are already stretched thin, trying to meet rising needs with fewer resources. Results show a bigger gap between what science has made possible and what communities are actually able to access.

At the same time, we’re witnessing a troubling rise in stigma, misinformation, and policy setbacks that make it even harder for people to access the healthcare that they deserve. Current economic unstable issues and strained health systems mean that many individuals are facing new barriers to staying connected to treatment or even getting in the door.

In a moment when progress hangs in the balance, our commitment to equity, compassion, and sustained investment is more than a goal—it’s a responsibility that everyone needs to put a hand in. Together, we can promise that an HIV-free future becomes a reality for everyone.