New Research: 73% of Organisations Forced to Scale Back HIV Services

Last updated on: 21 July 2026

New figures published today by amfAR (The Foundation for AIDS Research) reveal the devastating impact of US funding cuts to HIV programmes. Since funding for PEPFAR was reduced, at least 1,700 healthcare facilities have closed. In addition, 73% of healthcare organisations have been forced to discontinue at least one component of their HIV services prematurely. Men who have sex with men, sex workers and transgender people are among the groups most severely affected.

“This report reveals for the first time the full scale of the consequences of the withdrawal of US funding under President Trump. We are particularly concerned about the impact in African countries, where many programmes relied heavily on American support. Our partners report that access to HIV care and prevention is deteriorating, leaving growing numbers of people at risk of acquiring HIV,” said Lynn Werlich, Manager of International Programmes at Aidsfonds.

Years of progress under threat

The consequences extend far beyond healthcare alone. They also affect programmes that combat stigma, discrimination and human rights violations, putting years of hard-won progress at risk.

Of the organisations that previously provided HIV services, 73% have discontinued at least one form of care. The specific services affected vary by organisation, but include HIV prevention programmes, support services for vulnerable populations and care for people living with HIV. The figures show that investment in HIV prevention fell by 51% between 2024 and 2025. In addition, 43% of partner organisations permanently discontinued at least one prevention activity.

Call for leadership from Europe and the Netherlands

The global HIV response is facing increasing pressure. Aidsfonds is calling on Europe and the Netherlands to continue demonstrating leadership. This means investing not only in global health, but also in human rights.

“International leadership is more important than ever. Europe and the Netherlands have a crucial role to play in sustaining progress towards ending HIV, protecting human rights, and advancing the health of vulnerable populations. By investing together, we can reach more marginalised communities, support more solutions and accelerate progress towards inclusive health systems that leave no one behind,” said Werlich.

Aidsfonds takes action

To help address growing funding gaps in the HIV response, Aidsfonds will soon announce a new initiative aimed at supporting communities most affected by these cuts. More details will follow.