World AIDS Day has become one of the most recognized international health days and a key opportunity to raise awareness, commemorate those who have passed on, and celebrate victories, such as a 33% decrease in new infections since 2001. This year’s theme is 'Zero Discrimination,' given that in many parts of the world those people affected by this disease suffer discrimination and rejection.

World AIDS Day is celebrated around the world on December 1st each year. It has become one of the most recognized international health days and a key opportunity to raise awareness, commemorate those who have passed on, and celebrate victories, such as increased access to treatment and prevention services. UNAIDS took the lead on campaigning for World AIDS Day from its creation until 2004. The campaign’s themes are used year-round to hold governments accountable for their HIV and AIDS related commitments.

This year’s message is 'Zero Discrimination' because, as the UNAIDS 2013 report indicates, many regions and countries affected by this disease suffer discrimination and rejection. These countries are lagging behind in the fight against AIDS, although there has been a 52% reduction in new HIV infections among children and a cut of 33% for all children and adults since 2001.

According to the UN’s Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, “we must recommit to breaking the remaining barriers, including punitive laws and social exclusion, so we can reach all people who lack access to HIV treatment and services. To create conditions for an AIDS-free generation, we must also step up efforts to stop new HIV infections among children and ensure access to treatment for all mothers living with HIV. In this sense, the Secretary General has commended “all partners that are making significant contributions to the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.”

Diagrama Foundation joins the commemoration of this day as part of its interest and motivation in promoting healthy living for everyone. For this reason, Diagrama supports the promotion of health and disease education, and through its programmes and projects it works towards the prevention of risk behaviors and highlights the benefits of maintaining healthy and balanced lifestyles.

For more information about this Day, please visit the UN’s website as well as UNAIDS.