The Global Coalition of TB Advocates (GCTA), our allies and partners express our sincere appreciation for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and its unwavering commitment to ending the global tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS epidemic. For decades, USAID has been a cornerstone of the international fight against these devastating diseases, providing critical funding, technical expertise, and leadership that has not only saved countless lives, but also ensured global health security (including for Americans) because “we are all connected by the air we breathe”.
USAID's contributions globally have been instrumental in driving progress across the entire TB and HIV/AIDS spectrum. Supporting groundbreaking research and development of new diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines, prevention of DRTB, which is more costly to treat, to strengthening healthcare systems and ensuring access to quality TB and HIV/AIDS care in the most remote and underserved communities, USAID's impact is undeniable. USAID’s investments have fuelled innovation, empowered local communities, and fostered collaboration among diverse stakeholders, creating a powerful network of partners dedicated to tackling this complex challenge and brought us closer to a world free from TB and HIV/AIDS.
We particularly acknowledge USAID's vital role in:
The progress made in recent years towards ending TB and HIV/AIDS is a testament to the dedication and hard work of USAID and its partners. However, despite these remarkable achievements, TB and HIV/AIDS remain the leading infectious killer globally, claiming over a million lives each year. The fight is far from over.
It is in this context, that the GCTA, allies and partners, who are ourselves TB survivors, PLHIV and working with them, express our deep concern regarding the recent stop-work order issued by the U.S government, which has halted critical funding for TB and HIV/AIDS programs. This decision poses a significant threat to the hard-won gains in the fight against TB and HIV/AIDS and jeopardizes the lives of millions of people around the world.
We understand the complexities of budget allocation and the need for fiscal responsibility. However, we firmly believe that continued investment in TB and HIV/AIDS control is not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic investment in global health security, economic stability, and the well-being of all. A resurgence of TB and HIV/AIDS anywhere poses a threat to global health everywhere.
Therefore, we urge the U.S. government to urgently reconsider the stop-work order and restore funding for essential TB and HIV/AIDS programs. The world looks to the United States for leadership in global health, and continued U.S. support is absolutely essential to achieving our shared goal of ending TB and HIV/AIDS by 2030. We are confident that by working together, we can build a future where no one suffers or dies from these preventable diseases. The time to act is now!