Protecting the Global Fund and PEPFAR

Brandeis University, Partners in Health Engage

Waltham, Massachusetts

As Congress holds still with the government shutdown, it is vital to remember that the U.S continues its support for the Global fund and PEPFAR; two initiatives which have saved missions of lives protecting not just the world, but also Americans.

Since its creation, PEPFAR has provided HIV treatment to over 20 million people around the world and lessened the burden of the condition on families substantially. The Global fund supports programs to fight a range of diseases from Tuberculosis to malaria in over 100 countries around the world. These initiatives also serve to aid Americans, with less risks of infections across the world, it in turn keeps Americans safe as well. Together, PEPFAR and the Global Fund are some of the most successful global health efforts in U.S history.

However, despite their success, the current U.S government is making efforts to cut funding to global initiatives, such as their removal of USAID. The removal of PEPFAR and the Global fund would not only impact our efforts to help people across the globe, but damage global health security, putting everyone at further risk.

As students, we have a responsibility to advocate for continued support and compassion into global health, protecting others as well as ourselves.

We at Partners in Health Engage urge our representatives to fully support the Global Fund and PEPFAR, pushing back on efforts to reduce their funding. America’s leadership in global health reflects the values we hold dear, and now is the most important time to stand by them.

Nathaniel Hyman-Metzger ’27

Partners in Health Engage, Brandeis