HIV/AIDS
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) targets the body’s immune system and weakens it against many infections—including some types of cancer—a healthy immune system can typically fight off. As the virus destroys and impairs the function of immune cells, those infected gradually become immunodeficient. The most advanced stage of HIV infection is known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which, if not treated, can take years to develop, depending on the individual. There is no cure for HIV infection. However, through increasing access to effective HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care, including for opportunistic infections, HIV infection has become a manageable chronic health condition, enabling those living with HIV to lead long and healthy lives.
Secretary-General with Youth Participants in HIV/AIDS Discussion, 10 October 2007
This is a photo of Ban Ki-moon with a group of young delegates in New York on October 10, 2007, participating in a panel discussion on Youth Participation in Fighting HIV/AIDS. It is organized by an NGO, the Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDS.
Letter to Various Heads of State, 29 January 2008
This document is a letter from Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon to various Heads of State on the investment to combat HIV/AIDS.
Letter from Ban Ki-moon to Fode Seck, President of the Security Council, 8 November 2016
This is a letter from Ban Ki-moon to Fode Seck , President of the Security Council, reporting on the developments in the global effort to combat AIDS. During the June high-level meeting on ending AIDS, UN AIDS and the Department of Peacekeeping Operations organized a side event on AIDS and security.
Secretary-General's Press Encounter with Michel Sidibe, Executive Director of Unaids, 16 June 2009
This is a press encounter with Ban Ki-moon and Michel Sidibe, Executive Director of UNAIDS, where they discuss the AIDS crisis and efforts to address the stigma, discrimination and criminalization against people living with HIV/AIDS and homophobia. There are 14 million orphans left behind due the disease.
Letter from the Secretary-General to Mr. Miles White and Ms. Ann Veneman, 24 July 2008
This is an invitation letter from the Secretary-General to Mr. Miles White Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer Abbott Laboratories Illinois, and Ms. An Veneman Executive Director UNICEF New York to a round table discussion on access to HIV treatment and care.
Letter from Ban Ki-moon to Various Heads of State, 5 May 2016
This is a letter from Ban Ki-moon to Xi Jinping, President China, highlighting the importance of combating the spread of HIV/AIDS along with tuberculosis and malaria. China has been a leader in financing HIV/AIDS programs and the Global Fund to Fights AIDS.