The world risks a resurgence of the HIV epidemic, according to a new report from the United Nations agency UNAIDS.

International financing to combat HIV suffered a decline of more than $1.5 billion to $7.3 billion in 2025. This represents an 18% decrease and marks the lowest level of funding in nearly two decades.

18 %

Decrease in international HIV funding in 2025, reaching a near two-decade low of $7.3 billion.

The report describes the funding decline as a 'profound shock'.

Structural vulnerabilities exposed

Prevention programs historically rely heavily on donor assistance, with especially high dependency in sub-Saharan Africa reaching 83% two years ago.

Factors contributing to the worrisome outlook include high debt burdens in affected countries and backsliding on human rights and gender equality.