Hey there! 🌟 I wanted to share some exciting and important news with you all. In May 2023, I was invited to join the UNAIDS Global Advisory Group on Monitoring the 30-80-60 Targets. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a member of this incredible team. As an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, I know firsthand the challenges and stigma that come with living with HIV. This opportunity has been a powerful way for me to advocate for our community on a global stage.
Why My Representation Matters:
The 30-80-60 Targets are part of the 2021 Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS. These targets aim to prevent millions of new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths by 2030. They specifically call for community-led organizations to deliver:
- 30% of testing and treatment services.
2. 80% of HIV prevention services for high-risk populations.
3. 60% of programs to support societal enablers, reducing stigma, punitive laws, and gender-based violence.
Community-led organizations, like the ones I work with, play a critical role in achieving these targets. Our unique experiences, perspectives, and voices are essential in shaping effective strategies. We’re self-determined and autonomous, free from external influences, which allows us to truly represent and be accountable to our communities.
My Role and Contributions:
During our first meeting on May 10th, 2023, we discussed the development of a robust monitoring framework for these targets. We explored existing data collection and reporting mechanisms and identified opportunities to strengthen them. This is crucial because there’s currently no standardized system to track progress towards these targets.
Serving on this advisory group has been a humbling and empowering experience. It’s a reminder that our voices matter and that we can drive meaningful change. By representing young HIV-positive gay individuals and sex workers from Pakistan and the EMRO region, I’m committed to ensuring our needs and challenges are addressed.
As we move forward, our collaborative efforts will be instrumental in shaping a monitoring framework that drives positive change in the global fight against HIV. Together, we can make a difference and create a world where everyone has access to the care, support, and dignity they deserve.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more updates! 🌍❤️
Read more about 2025 targets and 30-80-60 targets on UNAIDS site Here: https://crossroads.unaids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GAU-2024-Annex-1-En.pdf