Increased support in the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria

The Norwegian Government is set to make a substantial increase in funding for international efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. Despite good progress, many million people throughout the world are infected with these diseases every year.

Norway will contribute NOK 1.7 billion to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria during the three-year period 2014–2016. This is an increase of more than 25 % from the period 2011–2013.

“A growing number of people are receiving treatment for these diseases, fewer people are dying from them, and the incidence of new infections is falling. Yet it is crucial that we don’t forget how serious these diseases continue to affect people’s lives and communities. Norway will substantially increase its contribution to the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria,” said Foreign Minister Børge Brende.

Six million people are currently receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS through programmes financed by the Global Fund. The UN estimates that 1.1 million deaths from malaria have been prevented between 2000 and 2010. The number of people infected with tuberculosis is steadily declining, and more of those who have developed the disease are receiving treatment.

Despite positive results, more than 35 million people are living with HIV and 1.6 million people die from AIDS every year. Tuberculosis claims 1.4 million lives every year, and malaria remains one of the main causes of death in developing countries.

“Long-term, predictable support is vital for succeeding in the fight against these diseases. Lack of funding will have serious consequences, such as a rising incidence of new infections,” said Foreign Minister Brende.

The Norwegian pledge for the next three-year period will be announced by State Secretary Hans Brattskar at a The Global Fund Fourth Replenishment Conference in Washington D.C. on 2–3 December.