The Global Fund

Sept. 2, 2023

Recently, the Global Fund announced a deal with generic pharmaceutical manufacturers to significantly slash the price of a cutting-edge HIV drug.

About Global Fund:

  • The Global Fund is a worldwide movement to defeat HIV, TB and malaria and ensure a healthier, safer, more equitable future for all.
  • It was set up in 2002.
  • Partners of this initiative: Governments, civil society, health workers and the private sector.
  • Funding:
    • It raises funds on a three-year cycle, bringing longer-term predictability in the fight against AIDS, TB and malaria.
    • The funding primarily comes from the public sector, with 92% of total funding coming from donor governments. The remaining funding comes from the private sector, foundations and innovative financing initiatives.
  • India joined the Global Fund as a donor in 2006 and pledged US$25 million for the Global Fund’s Seventh Replenishment, covering 2023-2025. 

Key facts about the recent agreement

  • It would make it possible to provide the advanced pill known as TLD for under $45 per person per year.
  • The three-in-one pill bands together the drugs tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, lamivudine and dolutegravir.
  • The World Health Organization has recommended it as the preferred first-line HIV treatment for adults and adolescents since it rapidly suppresses the virus that causes AIDS.

What is HIV?

  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system.
  • Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is the most advanced stage of the disease.
  • HIV targets the body’s white blood cells, weakening the immune system.
  • This makes it easier to get sick with diseases like tuberculosis, infections and some cancers.
  • It is spread from the body fluids of an infected person, including blood, breast milk, semen and vaginal fluids.
  • It can be treated and prevented with antiretroviral therapy (ART).