French AIDS Conference Sounds Alarm: Scientific Breakthroughs Face Funding Crisis
Montpellier, France – November 26, 2025 – As the 26th congress of the French Society to Fight AIDS (SFLS) opens today, a stark reality is emerging: despite remarkable scientific progress in the fight against HIV, the future of prevention and treatment is under threat due to dwindling financial resources. This breaking news comes on the eve of World AIDS Day, highlighting the urgent need for sustained investment in global health initiatives.
A Turning Point for Sexual Health in France
The SFLS congress, held in Montpellier from November 26-28, brings together a diverse group of experts – doctors, researchers, psychologists, and community organizations – to discuss the latest advancements and challenges in HIV and sexual health. This year marks a significant shift in France’s approach, with the former COREVIH regional coordination committees evolving into CoReSS, broadening their scope to encompass all aspects of sexual health and address the social determinants impacting access to care. This expansion recognizes that inequalities, discrimination, and violence are critical barriers to universal sexual health access.
Budget Cuts Threaten Global Progress
However, this ambitious expansion is occurring against a backdrop of serious budgetary concerns. While France possesses the tools to control the HIV epidemic, funding for vital programs is being slashed. Not only are French associations facing reduced support, but international programs like PEPFAR (the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) and USAID, along with the World Health Organization (WHO), are also experiencing significant budget cuts. Experts warn that a weakening of PEPFAR alone could trigger a resurgence of HIV infections and deaths, echoing the devastating peaks seen in 1996 and 2004. “In a globalized world, an upsurge in countries with limited resources will have repercussions in France,” organizers emphasize.
Shifting Infection Patterns & Rising STI Rates
The latest data reveals evolving trends in HIV infection within France. While the country is nearing the UNAIDS “95-95-95” targets (achieving over 93% at each stage of diagnosis, treatment, and viral suppression), approximately 9,700 people remain unaware of their HIV status. In 2024, a concerning shift has occurred: for the first time, new HIV infections are predominantly among heterosexual individuals, particularly those born abroad. Furthermore, new infections among men who have sex with men have plateaued since 2021, and late diagnoses remain high, indicating missed opportunities for early intervention.
Adding to the challenge, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise. Between 2022 and 2024, chlamydia infections increased by 14%, gonorrhea by 36%, and syphilis by 12%. The introduction of “My STI Test” – allowing convenient, prescription-free testing – has been popular with 15-25 year olds, but more needs to be done to reach vulnerable populations.
PrEP Access & the Promise of Long-Acting Injectables
The arsenal of HIV prevention tools is expanding, including condoms, the “Undetectable = Untransmittable” (I=I) principle, PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), and STI vaccinations. However, access remains uneven. Despite nearly 53,000 people using PrEP in 2023, half of eligible men who have sex with men aren’t utilizing it, particularly younger individuals and those facing socioeconomic challenges. A significant proportion of new HIV diagnoses – over half – are among individuals born abroad, with 43% infected after arriving in France.
The congress will also spotlight the potential of long-acting injectable PrEP, which promises improved adherence compared to daily pills. While cost, regulatory approval, and prescription access remain hurdles, this innovation could extend PrEP’s reach to those who currently don’t use it. Karim Lacombe will present the latest data on this promising new approach.
Reaching Vulnerable Populations & Addressing Systemic Issues
The SFLS congress underscores the critical need to reach marginalized communities – including those experiencing homelessness, migrants, sex workers, and young people – through targeted outreach programs. These efforts must also address the unique needs of bisexual individuals, those with multiple partners, women, and young men who have sex with men. A dedicated session will focus on sexual health within prison environments, where rates of hepatitis C and HIV are disproportionately high, showcasing the work of Dr. Fadi Merwe in the Montpellier region.
The challenges highlighted at the SFLS congress are a sobering reminder that the fight against HIV and STIs is far from over. Sustained investment, innovative prevention strategies, and a commitment to equitable access to care are essential to building a future free from the burden of these diseases. For more information and the full congress program, visit the SFLS website: https://congres.sfls.fr/Programme/. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this critical issue and breaking news impacting global health.
