World AIDS Day: How It Began, and Why We Still Need It

World AIDS Day has been marked every year on 1 December since 1988. It began at a time when HIV was widely misunderstood and heavily stigmatised. Many people did not feel safe to speak openly about their status. The day was created to remember those who had died, support those living with HIV, and bring the conversation into the public eye. It was the first global health awareness day of its kind.

Progress and Change

Decades of community activism, research, and campaigning have changed the landscape. Today, HIV is a manageable health condition. People living with HIV who are on effective treatment can live long and healthy lives. Treatment can also reduce the virus to a level that cannot be passed on through sex. This is known as U=U.

This progress is real and worth recognising.

Do Not Mistake Progress for Completion

However, improvement does not mean the work is done. Stigma still exists. Some communities still face barriers to testing and treatment. Cuts to funding in the UK and globally are already having an impact. Services are being reduced. Prevention programmes are under pressure. When support is taken away, it is the most marginalised communities who feel it first.

Progress can go backwards if we are not careful.

Community Leadership Matters

The progress we have made did not happen because of medicine alone. It happened because of community leadership. People living with HIV, activists, volunteers, educators, and peer support networks have driven change from the start. They continue to be essential today.

For that leadership to continue, investment and commitment must remain in place. It cannot be assumed. It must be protected.

Why We Still Mark the Day

So when we mark World AIDS Day, we are doing more than remembering the past. We are acknowledging the present and shaping the future. We are renewing the commitment to equity, dignity, and access to care for everyone.

The message this year is simple:
We cannot rest on our laurels.
Progress is not guaranteed.
The work continues, and we continue with it.

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