AHF calls on ASEAN to lead efforts to end AIDS in Asia-Pacific

January 3, 2025

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the world’s largest nonprofit provider of HIV/AIDS medical care, has urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to take a leading role in eradicating AIDS as a public health threat in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

At the UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board meeting held in Nairobi from December 10-12, 2024, Senior Minister Ieng Mouly, Chairman of Cambodia’s National AIDS Authority, reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to promote community-based responses to HIV/AIDS. Dr Chhim Sarath, AHF Asia Bureau Chief, clarified the importance of collaboration between AHF, ASEAN countries, and civil society organizations (CSOs) to achieve this goal.

AHF has proposed the creation of a comprehensive “Road Map to End AIDS in the ASEAN Region.” The organization, which serves over 400,000 clients across 10 APAC countries, is prepared to share its expertise to support ASEAN’s objectives. Through platforms like the ASEAN GO-NGOs Forum, AHF pushes for cooperation, mitigating inequalities, eliminating stigma, and expanding access to prevention and treatment services for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

Michael Weinstein, President of AHF, stated the significant global implications of ASEAN’s efforts. He noted that the Asia-Pacific region accounts for a substantial portion of the global population affected by HIV/AIDS. “By building partnerships with governments, civil society, and international agencies—and prioritizing community-based approaches—ASEAN can demonstrate that ending AIDS as a public health threat is achievable. Success in this region could save lives, reduce healthcare costs, improve workforce productivity, and strengthen communities, setting a global precedent,” Weinstein stated.

Tags: AHF, AIDS, ASEAN, featured