The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has applauded a fresh financial commitment from the United States, describing it as a timely and decisive move that will reinforce the global response to HIV. The US$5.88 billion funding package is expected to expand access to prevention and treatment services while protecting years of progress made against the epidemic.
The funding was signed into law on February 3, 2026, by US President Donald Trump following bipartisan support in Congress. UNAIDS said the decision sends a strong message of continuity and responsibility at a moment when global health systems are under pressure and millions still depend on sustained HIV support.
A significant portion of the package, US$4.6 billion, has been earmarked for bilateral HIV programmes under the America First Global Health Strategy. These funds will support wide-ranging interventions, including testing, antiretroviral treatment, prevention services, and health system strengthening in partner countries.
In addition, US$1.25 billion will be channeled to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, reinforcing international cooperation in the fight against major infectious diseases. UNAIDS itself will receive US$45 million to continue coordinating the global response and providing technical leadership.
UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima welcomed the move, saying the funding will directly translate into lives saved and stronger, more resilient health systems. She praised the United States for maintaining its role as a cornerstone of the global HIV response and for backing evidence-based approaches that deliver real impact.
The new law also supports progress toward the 95-95-95 targets, a global benchmark aimed at ensuring most people living with HIV know their status, receive treatment, and achieve viral suppression. UNAIDS said reaching these goals is central to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
For more than twenty years, the United States has been the largest single contributor to global HIV efforts. UNAIDS noted that American investments have helped millions access life-saving medicines and enabled countries to scale up prevention and care services, even in the most affected regions.
UNAIDS said it will deploy the new funding to deepen support for countries and communities most affected by HIV, working closely with governments, civil society, and international partners. The organization added that the renewal of US membership on the UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board through 2028 further confirms a long-term commitment to a world without AIDS.
