Reimagining the Global HIV Response: The Kigali Call to Action

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, host Ben Plumley is joined by Dr. Judy Auerbach, Dr. Jirair Ratevosian, and Dr. Mumbi Chola to discuss the 2025 Kigali Call to Action, a call to action for the global HIV response. The conversation highlights the need for meaningful partnerships, sustained research, prioritization of prevention, protection of human rights, and rejection of science politicization. The guests emphasize the importance of local leadership and community involvement in redesigning and rethinking the HIV response. The episode also addresses the challenges posed by reduced U.S. funding and the shifting roles of northern and southern countries in tackling the epidemic.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:06 HIV Science Conference and Guest Introductions

01:12 Introduction of Guests

04:24 Challenges and Common Purpose in HIV Response

05:23 Call to Action and Building Signatories

06:56 Core Principles for HIV Response

11:32 Emphasizing Prevention and Human Rights

12:23 The Importance of Prevention and Treatment

14:12 Scientific Research and Interdisciplinary Approaches

23:56 National and Regional Leadership in HIV Response

24:03 National and Regional Leadership in HIV Response

25:02 The Role of CEOs and Elected Officials

28:29 African-Led HIV Control Initiatives

39:04 Community Involvement in HIV Research

41:34 Call to Action and Global Collaboration

45:36 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

47:01 Conclusion and Farewell

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