Millions of people are vulnerable to HIV infection, and AIDS remains the leading cause of death among women of reproductive age and adolescents. Stigma and discrimination continue to impede the realization of people’s rights, including access to essential information and services to prevent and treat HIV. Adolescent girls and young women account for one in four new HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa.

Ending the AIDS epidemic requires long-term investments. Sexual and reproductive health and rights, indeed all human rights, are essential for realizing this vision. And given their higher risk of HIV infection, youth and key populations require focused support.

UNFPA promotes integrating HIV responses with sexual and reproductive health care, as part of an overarching strategy for universal access to HIV prevention, care and treatment services, including condoms. We support the empowerment of key populations, women and girls, and young people to live healthy and fulfilling lives and to access the services they need, free from stigma and discrimination and all forms of gender-based violence.