United Nations Secretary General's Message for World AIDS Day

[Guest guest]

U N I T E D N A T I O N S, THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE FOR WORLD AIDS DAY 1

December 2010

Next year will mark the 30th anniversary of the AIDS epidemic. This milestone

offers a moment to reflect -- and to renew our resolve.

Over the past three decades, AIDS has caused untold suffering and death. But

another story has unfolded through the years, one of the global community

uniting with passion to take action and save lives. These efforts are making a

real difference around the world.

Fewer people are becoming infected with HIV. Millions of people have gained

access to HIV treatment. More women are now able to prevent their babies from

becoming infected with HIV. Travel restrictions for people living with HIV are

being lifted by many countries, as stigma gives way -- still too slowly -- to

compassion and recognition of human rights.

With commitment and solidarity, this movement is helping the world turn the

corner on the AIDS epidemic. We have finally reached the first part of

Millennium Development Goal 6 -- by halting and beginning to reverse the spread

of HIV. We must continue to chart a new and bold path ahead.

Our common goal is clear: universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care

and support. We must also work to make the AIDS response sustainable.

Three decades into this crisis, let us set our sights on achieving the " three

zeros " -- zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related

deaths. On this World AIDS Day, let us pledge to work together to realize this

vision for all of the world's people.

http://unaidstoday.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/20101201_SG_WAD_MSG_en.pdf