HIV/AIDS was the first global epidemic to be allocated a dedicated international day - and with good reason. As we mark this 22nd World AIDS Day, HIV/AIDS remains a lethal threat to millions the world over, despite progress in improving access to treatment and reducing new infections.
 
The Commonwealth is home to two-thirds of the world's people living with HIV, including two-thirds of women living with HIV. But the Commonwealth also represents a huge potential for breaking the trajectory of the pandemic. The association's 53 members share common traditions and values, in the same way that they share common aspirations and challenges. The Commonwealth has long-established networks of government and civil society partners, in health as well as in the related spheres of law, education, finance and gender. These networks can advance the cause of the Commonwealth's work, for example, in overcoming the legal, social and economic barriers to universal access to effective HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, care and support.
 
Universal access and human rights - the theme of this World AIDS Day - provides a case in point. AIDS often hits hardest the most marginalised populations. Legal frameworks in many countries exacerbate the situation by criminalising the behaviour of these groups that are most at risk of HIV. Such laws and other forms of discrimination can present real obstacles to delivering essential services. 
 
Read the full statement.