Canada’s response to HIV is stuck in the past.

HIV infections are increasing despite the availability of highly effective testing, treatment and prevention tools. Since federal funding was frozen in 2008, the number of people living with HIV has increased 25%.

Stop the HIV funding freeze

Why is this important?

Despite growing cases of HIV, the federal government’s response remains critically underfunded. The government acknowledged HIV in a 2019 Action Plan but didn’t release any additional funding to go with it.

Freezing funding for 15 years while costs rise means organizations that test, treat, prevent, and raise awareness about HIV must do more with less. Services for people living with or at risk for HIV get scaled back, undermining prevention and support efforts.

When funding is frozen, who is impacted?

When it comes to HIV, the government’s failures are hurting some communities more than others.

HIV continues to disproportionately impact Black, Indigenous and racialized Canadians, as well as gay, bisexual and queer men. Black and Indigenous people are overrepresented among new HIV diagnoses, and half of all new cases are among men who have sex with men. More women are also contracting HIV today than five years ago.

What needs to be done?

We call on the Government of Canada to:

  • Increase funding to address HIV and AIDS in Canada to $100 million annually.

    This was already unanimously recommended by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health in 2019.

  • Make commitments to meet and collaborate with stakeholders in the HIV sector, including people living with HIV.

    Community-based organizations and advocates know the barriers to prevention, testing and treatment, and should be consulted.

Join us: write to the Minister of Health and your MP today.

Canada’s response to HIV is stuck in the past. HIV infections are increasing despite the availability of highly effective testing, treatment and prevention tools. Since federal funding was frozen in 2008, the number of people living with HIV has increased 25%. You can help by writing a letter to the Minister of Health and your local MP.

This campaign is brought to you by a group of community-based and human rights organizations dedicated to Canada’s response to HIV.

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