GENEVA – The abrupt cessation of US foreign aid funding has had a catastrophic impact, according to UNAIDS chief Winnie Byanyima, who warned that without immediate financial support, millions more lives could be lost, and the global AIDS pandemic could rebound.
Historically recognized as the largest global contributor to humanitarian efforts, the United States has drastically reduced its international aid under President Donald Trump’s administration since his return to the White House two months ago. Byanyima emphasized that while it is understandable for the US to gradually reduce its contributions, the sudden withdrawal of critical support is causing severe repercussions.
“We urgently call for a reconsideration and rapid restoration of essential life-saving services,” Byanyima stated during a press briefing in Geneva.
She highlighted the grim forecast if funding is not replenished, warning that an additional 6.3 million AIDS-related deaths could occur over the next four years. In 2023 alone, around 600,000 AIDS-related fatalities were reported worldwide, meaning the predicted surge represents a tenfold increase.
Beyond mortality rates, UNAIDS anticipates an alarming rise in new infections, estimating 8.7 million additional cases if aid remains insufficient. Byanyima expressed grave concern over the potential erosion of the hard-earned progress made over the past 25 years.
“Without renewed support, the AIDS pandemic will not only persist but will also expand beyond low-income African nations to key populations in Eastern Europe and Latin America,” she cautioned. “We could witness a resurgence reminiscent of the devastating toll seen in the 1990s and early 2000s.”
The urgent plea for the reinstatement of US aid underscores the critical need to sustain global efforts in combating AIDS and preventing a devastating global health crisis.