The HIV response in the context of political instability and emergencies

PERC Senior Health Advisor Addresses HIV Challenges Amid Political Instability and Emergencies at AIDS 2024 Dr. Keshab Deuba, Senior Health Advisor at PERC, delivered an impactful presentation during the session "The HIV Response in the Context of Political Instability and Emergencies" at AIDS 2024, the 25th International AIDS Conference held in Munich, Germany (22-26 July). The session was moderated by Dr. Ricardo Baptista Leite, a prominent leader at Health AI - The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health, Switzerland, and a former member of parliament in Portugal. This critical discussion delved into urgent issues such as the factors driving HIV acquisition in humanitarian crises, the disruption of HIV testing and treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the strategies needed to scale up and safeguard key population programs in increasingly complex legal, social, and political environments. The session also highlighted the profound impact of community-level HIV stigma and discrimination on testing, treatment adherence, and viral load suppression. One of the standout presentations was from Ukraine, showcasing the innovative Legal Bot 100% LIFE, which provides essential legal information to individuals navigating the dual challenges of full-scale war and martial law. Dr. Deuba expressed his privilege to contribute to this vital conversation, bringing perspectives from African, European, and Asian contexts. His participation emphasized the importance of shared experiences and innovative strategies in addressing the ongoing challenges posed by HIV in unstable and emergency settings.