Unity is strength - Joining hands to end the AIDS epidemic

The Ministry of Health has selected the theme for the 2025 National Action Month for HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control as: “Unity is strength – Joining hands to end the AIDS epidemic.” The campaign aims to mobilize the entire society in the fight against HIV/AIDS, working toward the goal of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030.

HIV patients undergo medical examinations at Center for Disease Control of Dong Nai Province. Photo: Archive

On November 13, the Dong Nai Department of Health issued a plan to commemorate 35 years of Vietnam’s response to HIV/AIDS, the National Action Month for HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control, and World AIDS Day (December 1) in Dong Nai Province in 2025.

The program aims to strengthen the attention of leaders, policymakers, and the broader society toward HIV/AIDS prevention and control, working toward the goal of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030. It also reviews the HIV/AIDS situation in Vietnam over the past 35 years, while summarizing and recognizing the nation’s achievements and efforts in the HIV/AIDS response.

Vietnam as a whole, and Dong Nai in particular, has been promoting the provision of comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention and control services, including coverage for prevention, early detection, timely treatment, and encouraging health insurance enrollment among people living with HIV, to improve access to HIV/AIDS services for the population.

Efforts have also focused on reducing stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV, those affected by HIV/AIDS, and individuals at high risk of infection; strengthening support from families and society; and creating conditions for people living with HIV and their family members to participate in HIV/AIDS prevention and control activities.

To mark the 2025 National Action Month for HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control, the Dong Nai Department of Health has requested that departments, sectors, mass organizations, and localities organize or integrate launch ceremonies into relevant events in commemoration of 35 years of Vietnam’s HIV/AIDS response, the 2025 National Action Month for HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control, and World AIDS Day (December 1). In addition, localities and units are encouraged to organize activities that mobilize public and community participation, such as mass parades, walks, cycling events, running competitions, exhibitions, music performances, theatrical shows, mobile film screenings, or gift-giving events for people living with HIV and those affected by HIV/AIDS.

HIV/AIDS prevention and control communications will be strengthened on social media platforms through practical messaging formats such as short video clips and digital media materials. In particular, communication events on HIV/AIDS and related topics will be organized at universities, colleges, vocational schools, high schools, and in industrial zones to engage the youth.

By H.Thanh – Translated by Thuy Trang, Minho