World AIDS Day

What is World AIDS Day?

World AIDS Day is a chance for people all over the world to come together in the battle against HIV, to support those who are living with HIV, and to remember those who have passed away from an AIDS-related illness. Since 1981, an estimated 40 million people have died from AIDS globally, and an estimated 37 million people are infected with HIV, making it one of the most important global public health issues in recorded history.

The purpose of World AIDS Day is to raise awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection and to remember those who have lost their lives to the disease.

World AIDS Day was established in 1988 as the first international health day and is observed annually on December 1. The 2023 theme is TBC.

How is World AIDS day observed?

Across the world, people attend events, fundraise, and hold testing drives to raise awareness and understanding of HIV and AIDS.

A red ribbon has become symbolic of HIV awareness and is worn on this day especially to show solidarity, donations made in return for a fabric red ribbon are passed on to the National Aids Trust.

World AIDS day and Employment.

Employers can play a key role in raising awareness and debunking the myths that surround HIV and AIDS. This day is an opportunity for employers to:

• Raise awareness by distributing information and resources.
• Order red ribbons to fundraise for the National Aids Trust.
• Donate or purchase red ribbons and make these freely available to staff.
• Highlight the importance of testing and direct people to testing clinics. Self-sampling HIV test kits are available in certain areas in England.