GENEVA, March 8: Kuwait’s permanent delegation to Geneva highlighted the country’s significant progress in combating the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) at the national level, according to United Nations reports. This success is largely attributed to the expansion of free, confidential voluntary testing and the provision of preventive treatments both before and after exposure to infection.

The statement was delivered by Diplomatic Attaché Sarah Al-Hasawi on behalf of the State of Kuwait at the 58th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, during a panel discussion on combating HIV. Al-Hasawi outlined that Kuwait has led the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in achieving the 90-90-90 targets. These indicators mean that 90% of people living with HIV are aware of their infection, 90% of those diagnosed are receiving antiretroviral treatment, and 90% of those receiving treatment have an undetectable viral load in their blood.

She also emphasized that Kuwait is making steady progress toward the next goal, the 95-95-95 indicators, as part of its national strategy to combat AIDS.

Additionally, Al-Hasawi noted that Kuwait has allowed the employment of individuals living with HIV in jobs that do not pose a risk to their health or others, ensuring their full integration into society. She stressed that Kuwait has adopted premarital medical examinations as part of its strategy to enhance health prevention. The country continues to implement widespread awareness campaigns to fight social stigma and encourage individuals to get tested, particularly in schools and universities, to promote effective prevention efforts.

On the international front, Al-Hasawi highlighted Kuwait’s ongoing support for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, with contributions totaling $27 million over the past 20 years. These funds have been crucial in ensuring equitable access to treatment and supporting the global effort to eliminate AIDS by 2030.

In conclusion, Al-Hasawi reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to the belief that the right to health is a fundamental human right. She emphasized that combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic requires non-discrimination, the preservation of dignity, and the protection of the privacy of those infected. Furthermore, she called for a unified global response to tackle the virus comprehensively.