Abstract

The world continues to fight HIV, as global leaders have pledged to work towards gaining universal access to HIV and AIDS treatment, prevention and care, thereby recognizing these as fundamental human rights. According to one source, millions of people are continually infected with HIV every year, while less than half of those in need of antiretroviral therapy are receiving it, and too many do not have access to adequate care services. The theme for the second year running of World AIDS Day celebration is “Universal Access and Human Rights”, which demonstrates an increasing clamour to gain access to HIV treatment services. Thus, there is need for a greater commitment around the world, if the aim of gaining universal access to HIV services is to be accomplished.

Key words: Human immunodeficiency virus/Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, universal access and human rights, treatment, prevention.