The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) will launch a new regional alliance December 5th dedicated to accelerating progress towards HIV elimination in Latin America and the Caribbean. The virtual event, coinciding with the release of the annual UNAIDS report, aims to address persistent gaps in prevention, treatment, and access to care that hinder the region’s ability to meet a 2030 goal of zero HIV-related deaths. Featuring insights from PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa and national leaders, the launch signifies a renewed commitment to collaborative, evidence-based strategies and tackling systemic barriers impacting vulnerable populations. Individuals interested in attending the 10:00-11:30 am EST webinar can register via Zoom at the link provided.
Details
Context
Despite significant progress in the region, substantial gaps remain in access to early diagnosis, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), timely treatment, and management of advanced HIV disease – hindering efforts to eliminate the virus. This virtual event aims to reinforce the Pan American Health Organization’s (PAHO) call to advance toward zero HIV-related deaths by 2030. Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving public health outcomes across the Americas.
During the event, the Regional Alliance for HIV Elimination will be officially launched. This initiative seeks to strengthen coordination between governmental institutions, communities, international agencies, and policymakers, promoting comprehensive, evidence-based, and people-centered responses.
The event coincides with the launch of the annual UNAIDS report and calls for a rethinking of approaches, rebuilding of alliances, and increased collective action to ensure no one is left behind. This comes at a critical time, as the HIV response faces challenges that require renewed efforts in prevention, treatment, universal access to innovative technologies, and the elimination of discrimination and structural barriers affecting vulnerable populations.
Agenda
10:00 a.m. – 10:10 a.m.
Welcome Message
Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director, Pan American Health Organization
10:10 a.m. – 10:40 a.m.
National Leadership: Accounts of Political Commitment to HIV Elimination in the Region
10:40 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Video of Successful Experiences in Advancing HIV Elimination
10:45 a.m. – 10:55 a.m.
Successes, Advances, and Challenges for HIV Elimination in Latin America and the Caribbean
10:55 a.m. – 11:05 a.m.
Achievements in the Community Response to HIV and the Path Forward
11:05 a.m. – 11:10 a.m.
Video Testimonial
11:10 a.m. – 11:20 a.m.
Presentation of the Alliance for HIV Elimination
11:20 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Questions and Answers
11:30 a.m.
Closing
A new regional alliance aimed at accelerating HIV elimination efforts will be unveiled December 5, 2025, in a virtual event hosted by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The initiative comes as the region continues to grapple with significant disparities in HIV prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
The event, scheduled from 10:00 am to 11:30 am Washington DC time, will feature remarks from Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO, and presentations highlighting national leadership, successful programs, and ongoing challenges in the fight against HIV in Latin America and the Caribbean. A video showcasing impactful experiences will also be shared.
The launch of the Regional Alliance for HIV Elimination is designed to foster stronger collaboration between governments, communities, international organizations, and policymakers. The goal is to promote integrated, evidence-based strategies that prioritize the needs of individuals affected by HIV. This coordinated approach is expected to improve the effectiveness of HIV programs and accelerate progress toward PAHO’s 2030 target of zero HIV-related deaths.
The event will also address the current crisis in the HIV response, emphasizing the need for increased investment in prevention, treatment, and access to innovative technologies. A key focus will be on dismantling discriminatory practices and structural barriers that disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. The discussion aligns with the release of the annual UNAIDS report and a broader call for renewed commitment to ending the HIV epidemic. Those interested in attending can register for the Zoom webinar.
The agenda includes a question-and-answer session, providing an opportunity for participants to engage with experts and contribute to the discussion. The event underscores the importance of a collective, sustained effort to achieve HIV elimination and improve the health and well-being of communities across the Americas.
