Zambia will this year join the rest of the world to commemorate World AIDS Day under the theme “Take the Rights Path.”. This year’s theme is a powerful reminder that the fight against HIV and AIDS is not just a public health issue but a human rights issue. Every person deserves equal access to health services, support, and the freedom to live without fear of stigma or discrimination. "Take the Rights Path” means ensuring that:

• Everyone has the right to health, including access to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services.
• Human dignity is protected, and discrimination against people living with HIV and AIDS is eliminated.
• Communities are empowered to advocate for their rights and the rights of others, ensuring that no one is left behind in the global HIV response.

Our Call to Action for this year’s world AIDS day demands that:

• Know Your Rights: Learn about your right to access HIV services and live a life free of stigma.
• Support the Fight: Join us in advocating for policies that protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their HIV status.
• Stand in solidarity: Stand with those living with HIV, ensuring they have the support and respect they deserve.

On this World AIDS Day, let us remember that the path to ending HIV is one paved with dignity, equality, and justice. Together, we can build a future where everyone’s rights are at the heart of our efforts to end the epidemic.