Thank you, Chair.

I am making this statement on behalf of the International Drug Policy Consortium and Harm Reduction International.

Key affected populations remain disproportionately impacted by the HIV epidemic – and yet, the funding dedicated to HIV prevention, treatment and care among people who use drugs, sex workers and men who have sex with men has traditionally been insufficient.

Today, we are raising the alarm regarding the catastrophic impact of recent US funding cuts on people who use drugs and other key affected populations.

According to HRI, in 2022, PEPFAR was the second-largest donor to harm reduction in low- and middle-income countries.

The consequences of these cuts are devastating. Funding for essential harm reduction services has been halted overnight. Globally, service providers have been dismissed without notice. Peer workers have suddenly lost access to HIV and HCV medications, medical and support and their income. Many will die.

Harm reduction is a proven public health intervention endorsed by the entire UN system. Investing in harm reduction is not just a moral obligation; it is an investment in global health, security, and human dignity.

We therefore call on governments and donors to take action now:

First, by investing in harm reduction within their domestic budgets.

Secondly, prioritising investments in the Global Fund, as the largest donor to harm reduction in low- and middle-income countries.

Finally, by ending the criminalisation of people who use drugs.

Thank you very much.