In 2020, over 2.8 million people died from HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, mainly in low- and middle-income countries. At its session on 24 August 2022, the Federal Council decided to continue its commitment to the fight against the three diseases. It allocated CHF 64 million to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (the Global Fund) for the period 2023–25 and provided support amounting to CHF 30 million for the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) for the period 2022–24.
Despite the remarkable progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, the goal of ending these epidemics has not yet been achieved. On the contrary, owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, since 2020 there have been significant setbacks: HIV testing has decreased by 22% and prevention services by 11%. Deaths due to malaria are on the rise, with one child dying from the disease almost every minute. Tuberculosis remains the most deadly infectious disease in the world after COVID-19.
These three diseases hinder the socio-economic development of low- and middle-income countries and particularly affect poor and vulnerable groups. The Global Fund and UNAIDS help governments to control these diseases within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda.
Switzerland remains committed to the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis: The #Swissgovernment has approved a contribution of CHF 64 million to the @GlobalFund for 2023-2025 and CHF 30 million to @UNAIDS for 2022-2024: https://t.co/WvN41O1Bwo (BK) @SwissMFA
— André Simonazzi (@BR_Sprecher) August 24, 2022
Switzerland and global health
By supporting these two Geneva-based organisations, Switzerland makes a valuable contribution to the strengthening of health systems in low- and middle-income countries. In a globalised world, effectively combating infectious diseases makes it possible to reduce health risks and reinforce security all over the world.
With a high concentration of key stakeholders in the country, ranging from pharmaceutical companies to international organisations, Switzerland is an important hub for global health. As a member of the Global Fund and UNAIDS executive boards, Switzerland shares its experience and advocates for the efficient use of resources. It is committed to promoting the participation of people affected by epidemics, as well as civil society, the private sector, and science, to ensure efficient and sustainable responses. This inclusive approach bolsters the fight against the three diseases and contributes to Geneva’s status as an international hub for expertise.
