“We’re closely watching developments in both infection rates and funding in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The challenges are great,” said Anne von Fallois, CEO of Deutsche AIDS-Stiftung (DAS), during a meeting with Eamonn Murphy, UNAIDS Regional Director, in Bonn. “We’re united on the importance of the region—especially Ukraine.”

This is a critical moment for the AIDS response in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA). As global attention shifts to new crises, there is growing concern that the region—where both new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths are still rising—could be left behind.

Since 2010, AIDS-related deaths in EECA have increased by 34%. Only about half of people living with HIV are on treatment, and viral suppression—at just 42%—is the lowest globally. More than half of new HIV diagnoses occur late, when risks of transmission and mortality are significantly higher.

War, displacement, economic hardship, and migration may be contributing to a more challenging HIV response, with potential implications beyond national borders, including the European Union. While the full impact is still emerging, these pressures could place additional demands on health systems and underscore the importance of sustained, coordinated action.

Access to services remains fragile in all countries of the region. While antiretroviral therapy is officially free in most countries, too many people are still unable to access it. Prevention coverage is even lower: opioid agonist maintenance therapy reaches only a fraction of those who need it, and pre-exposure prophylaxis remains limited. Key populations account for most new infections, yet continue to face stigma, discrimination, and legal barriers rooted in outdated policies.

“We know what works: community-led services are essential to reach people who are otherwise excluded, and partnership with communities is vital in these challenging times,” said Eamonn Murphy. “With continued UNAIDS engagement in the region, sustained, coordinated investment—alongside government commitment and community engagement—is essential to protect progress and prevent further loss of life.”

Through its partnership with UNAIDS, Deutsche AIDS-Stiftung supports HIV work in Germany and internationally, advancing stigma reduction, prevention, social support, and assistance for vulnerable groups.

As funding uncertainties grow, partners stressed the need to strengthen joint resource mobilization and encourage more active engagement from the European Union. Emergency measures can only go so far. The investments required are modest, but the stakes—for the region and for Europe as a whole—could not be higher.