New studies show US policy cuts disrupt PEPFAR HIV services

Two new studies provide the first large-scale evidence that recent U.S. funding and policy changes have fundamentally reshaped a flagship global health program, causing widespread interruptions to HIV services with local organizations, children, and key populations bearing the heaviest burden. The research, released this week ahead of the 26th International AIDS Conference, indicates the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, has narrowed significantly since late 2025.

The first study, known as the PEPFAR Pulse Study, surveyed 166 organizations that implement PEPFAR-supported programs across 46 countries between November 2025 and April 2026. More than half of those surveyed reported losing at least one grant, leading to the closure of over 1,700 clinics and service delivery sites. Even organizations that retained funding often faced new conditions, with 77% reporting they had to comply with updated U.S. policy restrictions to continue receiving support. These included limiting programs to designated "lifesaving" activities, complying with restrictions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and reducing or ending services for populations most...