Cambodia has become the first country in Asia to achieve the UNAIDS 95-95-95 HIV treatment target, a significant milestone in the global fight against AIDS. The target means that 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed receive sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those on treatment achieve viral suppression. This achievement was announced by Cambodian health officials in early 2024, based on data collected through national surveillance systems.
According to the Cambodia HIV/AIDS Coordinating Committee, over 95% of people living with HIV in the country are now aware of their status, more than 95% of diagnosed individuals are on antiretroviral therapy, and over 95% of those on treatment have suppressed viral loads. These figures surpass the global average and place Cambodia among a small group of nations that have met the goal, including several African countries. The success is attributed to a decentralized healthcare model that integrates HIV services into primary care and relies heavily on trained community health workers.
Dr. Mean Chhi Vun, Director of the National Center for HIV/AIDS, Dermatology and STDs (NCHADS), stated, This result is the outcome of over a decade of focused investment, strong political will, and the dedication of thousands of health workers who bring testing and treatment directly to people’s homes and communities.
Cambodia’s approach has emphasized outreach to key populations, including men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, and people who inject drugs, through peer-led programs and drop-in centers. The country has also invested in viral load testing infrastructure, ensuring that treatment effectiveness is monitored routinely. These efforts have been supported by long-term funding from international partners such as the Global Fund and PEPFAR, combined with increasing domestic investment.
Community Health as the Cornerstone of Success
The Cambodian model highlights the importance of treating HIV not just as a medical issue but as a social one requiring trust, accessibility, and cultural sensitivity. By embedding services within local communities and reducing stigma through education, the country has improved retention in care and adherence to treatment. This strategy has proven especially effective in rural and underserved areas where clinic access is limited.
Looking ahead, health officials aim to sustain these gains while addressing emerging challenges such as aging among people living with HIV and ensuring long-term funding as international support evolves. Cambodia plans to transition toward greater domestic financing while maintaining program quality. Experts suggest that other nations in Asia and beyond can adapt elements of Cambodia’s approach, particularly its reliance on community health workers and data-driven decision-making, to accelerate progress toward ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
Key questions
- What does the UNAIDS 95-95-95 target mean?
- The UNAIDS 95-95-95 target means that 95% of people living with HIV know their HIV status, 95% of those who know their status are receiving antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression. Reaching this target indicates effective control of the HIV epidemic within a population.
- How did Cambodia achieve the HIV treatment target?
- Cambodia achieved the target through a combination of government commitment, international funding, and a strong network of community health workers who deliver HIV testing, treatment, and education directly to people’s homes. The country integrated HIV services into primary care and focused on reducing stigma and reaching key populations.
