World AIDS Day 2021

World AIDS Day (WAD) takes place annually on 1st December. 2021 marks 33 years of World AIDS Day – a pioneering global health campaign first initiated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1988. 2021 also marks the 40 years since the first reports of HIV and AIDS in 1981.

The global UNAIDS theme for 2021 is End inequalities. End AIDS. End pandemics

HIV remains a significant public health issue in Ireland. If you would like to support our work, please donate today.

2021 World AIDS Day Events in Ireland

GLOW RED for World AIDS Day: 30th November to 1st December

An annual initiative by HIV Ireland to shine a light on the impact of HIV-related stigma, to stand in solidarity with people living with HIV and to show your support to end HIV-related stigma.

The campaign encompasses the lighting of buildings in red across Ireland, wearing red to show individual support, a limited edition enamel pin on sale to raise vital funds for HIV Ireland’s work, and a social media campaign #GLOWRED4WAD.

Find out more about the GLOW RED for World AIDS Day campaign and how you can get involved.

GCN and HIV Ireland present LIVING:
a unique portrayal of people living with HIV in Ireland
1st to 10th December 2021

GCN and HIV Ireland have once again teamed up for a World AIDS Day initiative, and this year we are bringing you a special project that seeks to give real visibility and celebrate the diversity of people living with HIV in Ireland.

The project is kindly supported and funded by GSK, Dublin Pride, the HSE Sexual Health and Crisis Pregnancy Programme, and EPIC.

LIVING is an innovative, first-of-its-kind, photographic exhibition showcasing a powerful and inspiring collection of portraits by the wonderfully talented photographer Hazel Coonagh.

After 40 years of HIV and AIDS, this not-to-be-missed milestone moment in Ireland’s HIV response will endeavour to change the narrative, move away from outdated stereotypes, and shift society’s perceptions.

The photographic exhibition is made possible by the voluntary contributions of people living with HIV. We’re so thankful for their participation.

The exhibition will be launched at a special fundraising event on World AIDS Day, Wednesday, 1st December 1, at 7 pm in The CHQ Building in Dublin.

Hosted by national treasure, Panti Bliss, join us for an inspirational conversation with portrait participants, who will contribute their thoughts on living with HIV in Ireland in 2021 and provide words of encouragement and support to other people living with HIV across our shores.

Tickets are limited due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Get your tickets now

Following the launch, the exhibition will run until 10th December at the CHQ building during opening hours.  It will be free to view and visitors will be able to make donations through special Tap to Donate points. All donations will provide much-needed funding for GCN and HIV Ireland.

The Irish Aid Annual Professor Father Michael J. Kelly Lecture on HIV and AIDS
3rd December 2021

This 2021 annual event takes place online on 3rd December and this year’s theme is ‘End Stigma and Discrimination’.

The event will be moderated by Dil Wickremasinghe, and will feature keynote speaker Winnie Byanyima (UNAIDS Executive Director), and a panel of outstanding speakers including: Dr Ailbhe Smyth, Prof. Sheila Tlou, and Liz Martin. 

This special event will incorporate a memorial to Professor Father Michael J. Kelly (1929–2021) and his work on HIV and AIDS that continues to impact and inspire.

Find out more and register to attend

World AIDS Day Run 2021: 4th December 2021

Become an Ambassador against HIV Stigma by joining the 2021 World AIDS Day Run (or walk).

On Saturday 4th of December, the Sexual Health Centre will host a free 5K World AIDS Day run in conjunction with the HSE Sexual Health and Crisis Pregnancy Programme and Parkrun, in a bid to tackle HIV stigma and encourage people to test regularly.

Get more information and register today.