New Zealand has officially signed the global Call-to-Action on Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U), demonstrating its commitment to ending HIV transmission and ensuring that people living with HIV can lead healthy, stigma-free lives. Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey emphasized that U=U is an evidence-based principle confirming that individuals on effective HIV treatment who maintain an undetectable viral load cannot sexually transmit the virus.
By endorsing the Call-to-Action, New Zealand aims to integrate U=U into national HIV strategies, increase public awareness, reduce stigma, promote testing, and support earlier access to treatment. This commitment strengthens both HIV prevention and long-term health outcomes, reinforcing U=U as a core component of the country’s HIV response.
The initiative encourages countries to embed U=U in guidelines, expand equitable access to testing and treatment, support community-led efforts, and enhance public understanding of HIV. Aligning with New Zealand’s National HIV Action Plan, the move supports the goal of eliminating local HIV transmission by 2030 while addressing stigma and discrimination associated with the virus.
While treatment uptake and viral suppression rates in New Zealand are strong, stigma remains a significant barrier for many people living with HIV. Signing the U=U Call-to-Action sends a clear message that discrimination has no place in the country, acknowledging the advocacy and lived experiences of communities most affected by HIV.
New Zealand is the fifth country to join the Call-to-Action, following Canada, the United States, Vietnam, and Australia. Over 1,100 organizations across 106 countries have also committed to sharing the U=U message with their communities. This milestone builds on recent progress in New Zealand, including reductions in locally acquired HIV infections, wider adoption of combination prevention measures, and expanded testing access, with 98.5% of diagnosed individuals on treatment and 91.7% achieving viral suppression.
