For the first time in decades, the United States did not formally recognize World AIDS Day on December 1, marking a significant break from long-standing tradition. The annual observance, created in 1988, is intended to highlight progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS and honor the millions who have died from the disease. This shift comes at a time when global health leaders continue to warn about the ongoing threat of HIV, which affects millions worldwide.
Globally, an estimated 39.9 million people are living with HIV, including about 1.2 million in the United States. Roughly 13% of infected Americans are unaware of their status, which experts say remains a major factor driving new transmissions. Despite consistent declines in mortality and advances in treatment, HIV continues to carry heavy clinical and economic consequences for individuals, communities, and health systems.
The change in U.S. observance follows the country’s withdrawal from the World Health Organization earlier this year. Although the global commemoration of World AIDS Day has expanded far beyond WHO, the decision not to mark the day on a national level has intensified concerns about shifting priorities within the administration.
In response to criticism, State Department officials emphasized that symbolic events are not central to their approach. They argued that the administration is focused on government-to-government engagement designed to improve public health outcomes and promote cost sharing. Officials highlighted the release of an “America First” global health strategy meant to streamline U.S. foreign assistance and modernize its response to infectious diseases.
However, many public health experts say the broader strategic shift could have damaging consequences. Analysts warn that the new approach may weaken international health systems already struggling with reduced resources. They note that billions of dollars in aid cuts, combined with large-scale restructuring of the U.S. Agency for International Development, have created gaps in disease prevention, surveillance, and treatment funding.
Criticism has been particularly sharp among HIV specialists, who warn the U.S. is stepping away from the very efforts that helped stabilize infection rates. Dr. Anna Person, chair of the HIV Medicine Association, said attempts to scale back HIV initiatives are raising serious concerns. She warned that reduced funding and diminished focus could lead to increases in new infections, higher health care costs, and preventable deaths.
Advocates argue that progress against HIV remains fragile and dependent on continued investment in research, services, and community support.
The administration insists that it remains committed to fighting HIV, but the absence of a national World AIDS Day observance has amplified doubts. At a time when global health challenges demand coordination and stable funding, the move signals a dramatic shift in U.S. policy. For millions affected by the epidemic, uncertainty over the future of HIV programs is creating renewed anxiety about the progress made over the past four decades.
