HIV/AIDS

Building on the HIV data and estimates, UNICEF is leading a new groundbreaking analysis, in close collaboration with UNAIDS and Avenir Health, on the impact of cuts to HIV programmes on children. The Cost of Inaction for Children analysis is a forward-looking modelling exercise using nationally produced, validated, and endorsed HIV estimates to better understand the consequences of reduced funding and reduced HIV services on children, adolescents and pregnant women living with and at-risk of HIV. The analysis explores how funding shortfalls could lead to a resurgence in HIV, increased mortality and additional new HIV infections among children and adolescents.

The findings will inform global advocacy, donor engagement, and country action – highlighting the urgent need to safeguard life-saving investments in HIV treatment and prevention programmes, including to eliminate vertical transmission of HIV and scale up testing and treatment for children and adolescents living with HIV.