On February 18th, South Africa hosted the launch of the investment case for the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. This launch comes at a crucial moment in the fight against these diseases, and the Global Fund’s ambitious goal of raising US$18 billion for the 2027-2029 period deserves the EU’s strong support. This investment will save an estimated 23 million lives, dramatically reduce mortality from these diseases by 64%, and contribute to a healthier, safer, and more equitable world — a world the EU is actively working to build.
The investment case launch coincided with G20 meetings, marking the first time an African nation has held the G20 presidency. South Africa, disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, faces a particularly heavy epidemiological burden. With over 50,000 annual deaths from each disease, the country relies on substantial national funding and international support to save lives and bolster its healthcare system’s resilience.
Since 2002, the Global Fund has invested US$66.9 billion in over 100 countries, delivering life-saving resources where they are most needed. This investment has yielded remarkable progress, building strong national responses to infectious diseases and strengthening health systems – achievements that directly contribute to global health security, a shared EU objective.
The Global Fund’s model of health financing is uniquely effective. It transcends geopolitical crises, prioritises support for the least developed countries, and empowers nations to achieve health autonomy and sovereignty, aligning perfectly with the EU’s commitment to multilateralism and sustainable development.
However, converging crises – including conflict, economic instability, and climate change – threaten these hard-won gains. Declining Official Development Assistance (ODA) from many countries jeopardises further progress and undermines global health. The European Commission’s leadership in global health is now more critical than ever. Now is a prime opportunity to demonstrate that leadership.
The EU played a pivotal role in establishing and shaping the Global Fund, and a strong policy alignment exists between the two, particularly in global health, gender equality, and human rights — areas where the EU is a recognised global leader. Ending HIV, TB, and malaria by 2030 remains within reach, but not without sustained and substantial investment.
The Global Fund’s 8th Replenishment, which will be co-hosted by South Africa and the United Kingdom this year, provides a platform for bold action. A substantial EU contribution to the US$18 billion target will save millions of lives, bolster global health security, and create a healthier, more prosperous world – a world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
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