The recent freeze in US funding has begun to significantly impact HIV care organizations across Latin America. This disruption, primarily affecting countries like Colombia, Haiti, and Mexico, stems from the actions of former US President Donald Trump, which hit the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) particularly hard. PEPFAR has been a crucial lifeline since its inception, saving tens of millions globally. However, without reauthorization for the next four years, experts warn that 6.3 million AIDS-related deaths could occur, reflecting a staggering 400% increase.
In Colombia, organizations such as Red Somos are facing dire circumstances. Red Somos, which provides essential HIV care to Venezuelan migrants, has had to drastically curtail its operations due to the aid freeze. Without explicit permission from the US to resume work, they are left with over 170 antiretroviral drugs nearing expiration. Meanwhile, in Haiti, thousands of individuals depending on US-funded organizations for HIV care are at risk. A USAID worker highlighted that the State Department's waiver does not encompass essential aspects of HIV care, like psychological and economic support for affected families.
“We basically have to reduce our activities,” stated an affected organization in Haiti.
Mexico is also feeling the strain. Lopez from Mexico noted that the impact is already severe as some US organizations funding their work have shut down. The lack of resources is forcing these groups to search for alternative funding sources, though it might not suffice to meet the needs of those living with HIV.
“We are already feeling the impact, as some US organizations that funded our work in Mexico are now shutting down,” said Lopez.
The interruption in treatment is a critical concern. Without consistent treatment, HIV can rebound in less than a month, potentially leading to more resistant strains. Around 300 Venezuelan migrants with HIV have already been affected as their treatment relied on PEPFAR support. This situation has also restricted aid groups' ability to distribute vital medicines like PrEP, a preventative HIV medication.
“It’s like crash landing an airplane,” expressed Asia Russell, Executive Director of Health GAP.
“Chaos has already been extreme in the field and recovery from that disruption is not easy,” Russell added.
The international community is being urged to step in and assist these struggling aid groups. However, finding sufficient resources remains a challenge.
“There is not going to be enough money for everyone,” warned Miguel Lopez.
Dr. Craig Spencer, an emergency medicine physician and professor at Brown University School of Public Health, encapsulated the gravity of the situation succinctly:
“We’re shooting ourselves in the face.”
The ramifications of the funding freeze extend beyond immediate medical care. They threaten to undermine years of progress in fighting HIV/AIDS in Latin America. Organizations are scrambling for solutions but face significant obstacles without adequate support.
