Theresa May – 2017 Speech on World Aids Day

Below is the text of the speech made by Theresa May, the Prime Minister, on World Aids Day on 1 December 2017.

On this thirtieth World AIDS Day, I am proud to wear the red ribbon in support of everyone living with HIV.

Since the first World AIDS Day in 1988, treatment and care for people with HIV has been transformed.

Men and women who a generation ago would have been lost are today leading happy and productive lives, and making an enormous contribution to our world.

Valued colleagues and neighbours, much-loved children, friends, and partners are a living testament to how far we have come.

And if we can succeed in making testing and treatment available to all, a final end to HIV transmission and the reality of an AIDS free generation is within our grasp.

As we continue our work towards that goal, we must also bring an end to the stigma which still blights the daily lives of many people with HIV.

This stigma leads to social isolation, lowers self-esteem, and damages mental health.

No one should have to face it – and we all have our part to play in stamping it out.

So on this World AIDS Day, as we remember all those we have lost, and redouble our efforts to end HIV transmission, let’s vow to support everyone who is living with HIV.

And together, let’s end the isolation and end the stigma for good.