World AIDS Day 2026

World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day, observed annually on 1st December, is an opportunity for people around the globe to unite in the fight against HIV/AIDS, support those affected, and remember those who have lost their lives to the disease.

The importance of World AIDS Day

Raising awareness and understanding

World AIDS Day provides a platform to educate people about the disease, reduce stigma, and encourage testing and prevention methods. It promotes open conversations and corrects myths, which helps build a more informed society.

Supporting affected communities

The day serves as a reminder of the millions of people living with HIV/AIDS and the challenges they face. By raising funds and providing resources, communities can improve access to healthcare and support services.

Advocating for policy change

World AIDS Day is also a chance to ask governments and organisations to invest in research and treatment and to widen access to care for all people, regardless of income or background.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and HIV/AIDS

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

SDG 3 focuses on healthy lives for people of all ages. This includes work to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2030 through prevention, testing, treatment, and long term support.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

HIV/AIDS affects some groups more than others. SDG 10 seeks fair access to healthcare, social protection, and opportunities so that no group is left behind.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Global progress on HIV/AIDS depends on cooperation between countries, agencies, and communities. SDG 17 recognises the need for shared knowledge, technical skills, and funding.

World AIDS Day partners and resources

UNAIDS

UNAIDS is a joint United Nations programme that provides data, policy advice, and guidance on the HIV response at country and global level.

World Health Organization (WHO)

WHO publishes technical guidance on HIV testing, treatment, prevention, and service delivery models used by health systems worldwide.

The Global Fund

The Global Fund invests in programmes that address HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. It supports country-led plans and community projects.

AVERT

AVERT provides learning materials, articles, and tools on HIV prevention, treatment, and support that can be used by individuals and organisations.

International AIDS Society (IAS)

IAS is a global association of HIV professionals that connects experts, shares scientific findings, and hosts conferences such as the International AIDS Conference.

World AIDS Day 2026 theme: Rethink. Rebuild. Rise.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2026 is “Rethink. Rebuild. Rise.” It calls on researchers, health workers, policymakers, and communities to reflect on current approaches and adapt them so that programmes reach people more effectively.

“Rethink” points to the need for fresh approaches to funding, service delivery, and inclusion. “Rebuild” directs attention to health and community systems that place people at the centre. “Rise” calls for strong leadership, sound science, and long term partnerships.

The theme is also linked to preparations for the 26th International AIDS Conference in 2026, where partners will review progress and set out the next steps in the global HIV response.

How to get involved on World AIDS Day

Raise awareness

Share accurate information about HIV/AIDS and World AIDS Day on social media, using the hashtag #WorldAIDSDay. Host events, talks, or small group sessions in your community to help people learn and engage.

Support affected communities

Donate to organisations working on HIV prevention, treatment, and support. Offer your time and skills to local projects that assist individuals and families affected by HIV.

Advocate for policy change

Reach out to local or national representatives and ask them to support HIV-related programmes, research, and protection of human rights in health settings.

Wear the red ribbon

The red ribbon is the international symbol of HIV awareness and solidarity. Wearing it on World AIDS Day shows support for people living with HIV and helps challenge stigma.

Educate yourself and others

Keep up to date with advances in HIV prevention, treatment, and care. Share what you learn with colleagues, friends, and family to build wider understanding.

World AIDS Day is a chance to stand with people affected by HIV, honour lives lost, and move closer to a future where HIV is no longer a threat to public health.

Frequently asked questions about World AIDS Day

When is World AIDS Day observed?

World AIDS Day is observed on 1st December every year. The date is used around the world to focus attention on HIV prevention, treatment, and support.

Why does World AIDS Day still matter?

Many people still acquire HIV each year and some do not have stable access to testing or treatment. World AIDS Day keeps public and political attention on prevention, care, and long term support.

How can organisations participate?

Organisations can share data and stories, host learning sessions, support local community groups, and update their workplace policies so people living with HIV feel safe and supported.

How does World AIDS Day connect to the SDGs?

World AIDS Day supports SDG 3 on health, SDG 10 on reduced inequalities, and SDG 17 on partnerships by promoting fair access to services and joint action across sectors and countries.

World AIDS Day themes

Year	Theme	Description
1988	Communication	The first year celebrated and the first time with UN recognition.
1989	Youth	Focused on educating young people about HIV/AIDS prevention.
1990	Women and AIDS	Highlighted the impact of HIV/AIDS on women.
1991	Sharing the Challenge	Promoted shared responsibility in the global response.
1992	Community Commitment	Encouraged local engagement and support.
1993	Time to Act	Called for rapid and coordinated response to the HIV/AIDS crisis.
1994	AIDS and the Family	Looked at the impact of HIV/AIDS on families.
1995	Shared Rights, Shared Responsibilities	Emphasised human rights and ethical action in the HIV response.
1996	One World. One Hope.	Called for unity in global efforts and progress.
1997	Children Living in a World with AIDS	Drew attention to children affected by HIV/AIDS.
1998	Force for Change: World AIDS Campaign with Young People	Encouraged young people to take active roles in HIV education and prevention.
1999	Listen, Learn, Live: World AIDS Campaign with Children & Young People	Engaged children and youth in HIV awareness and prevention efforts.
2000	AIDS: Men Make a Difference	Promoted the role of men in prevention, testing, and care.
2024	Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!	Called on leaders and communities to uphold the right to health and address barriers to HIV services.
2025	Rethink. Rebuild. Rise.	Encourages new thinking, stronger systems centred on people and communities, and shared action leading into AIDS 2026.