New UK government strategy shows commitment but lacks HIV spending targets
30 June 2008
This month saw the launch of the UK government’s long-awaited HIV strategy, Achieving Universal Access. The Alliance welcomed the government’s long-term commitment to HIV, but questioned the lack of HIV-specific spending targets.
The International HIV/AIDS Alliance has welcomed the British government’s long-term commitment to HIV and to strengthening health systems in developing countries but questions whether there is sufficient funding available and if the money will actually be spent on HIV services.
Alvaro Bermejo, the Alliance’s executive director welcomed the UK government’s continuing commitment to HIV. “We are pleased to see the adoption of a rights-based strategy that focuses on those most at risk of HIV, like women and children, and vulnerable groups including injecting drug users, sex workers and men who have sex with men.”
However, the major concern is that the funding allocated will not be enough to deliver the promise of Universal Access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support and it will not reach those most vulnerable to new HIV infections.
Rather than allocating money for HIV-specific activities, the £6 billion announced is likely to go directly to governments’ health budgets. It means there are no guarantees that the money will actually be spent on HIV services.
Traditionally those most at risk of the virus – the marginalised and vulnerable populations – have a problem accessing HIV services because of stigma and discrimination. Governments and health services routinely ignore the needs of these groups.
“We are still not clear how the funding is going to reach civil society and the most at risk populations who are at the forefront of the fight against HIV,” said Alvaro Bermejo.
The Alliance welcomed Douglas Alexander, the Secretary of State for International Development’s comments that the UK is committed to stronger support for civil society organisations in developing countries.
“We commend the UK government’s support for civil society organisations, but they need the resources to do this vital work. If the funding does not reach those living with or at risk of HIV we will find that the gains made in the last decade will be undone,” he warned.
