EGPAF Responds to 2023 State of the Union Address

WASHINGTON, D.C. — 8, February, 2023

In response to yesterday’s State of the Union address, EGPAF President and CEO, Chip Lyons issued the following statement:  

“President Biden’s praise of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) last night was a welcome reminder of the progress that’s been made in achieving an AIDS-free generation. PEPFAR is widely considered as the greatest commitment by any nation in addressing a single disease, saving more than 25 million lives since its launch in 2003.  

But there’s more work to be done. Children are 4 percent of new infections but 15 percent of HIV-related deaths globally with the majority living in sub-Saharan Africa. Bipartisan leadership, political will, and financial investment are needed to finish the fight. 

No one opposes HIV services for children, and yet far too often, services for children are set aside when budgets are tight or other challenges stand in the way. We ask Congress to continue their bipartisan support for the PEPFAR program and stand up for children, youth, and families so we can end the global AIDS epidemic once and for all.”  

CONTACT:     

Daniel Pino, Manager, Media Relations & External Engagement