The 2026 AFRAVIH conference, held in Lausanne from May 12-15, brings together French-speaking HIV/AIDS researchers and activists. This year's event focuses on the impact of US funding cuts under President Trump's administration, which have reduced contributions to global health initiatives like PEPFAR and the Global Fund.
Organizers emphasize the conference's in-person format to foster collaboration, despite economic pressures. Key topics include antiretroviral access in Africa, stigma reduction, and the rise of HIV drug resistance. According to UNAIDS, global HIV funding gaps could jeopardize progress toward ending AIDS by 2030.
Speakers include Dr. Françoise Barré-Sinoussi, Nobel laureate, who warned that political shifts threaten decades of progress. The conference also highlights community-led responses and the need for sustainable domestic financing in affected countries.
