Cambodia has become the first nation in the Asia-Pacific region to reach the global 95–95–95 HIV targets, according to a joint announcement by the Royal Government of Cambodia and UNAIDS. This milestone means 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed are on antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of patients on treatment have achieved viral suppression. The achievement marks a shift toward ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, though officials warn that reaching the final goal of eliminating new infections requires sustained domestic investment.
How did Cambodia reach the 95–95–95 milestone?
Success in Cambodia stems from a multisectoral strategy that prioritizes community-led services and innovative health access. According to UNAIDS, the government expanded the availability of self-testing kits and long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). By integrating HIV services directly into the broader primary health care system, the country made treatment more accessible. Eamonn Murphy, UNAIDS Regional Director, credited the result to long-term partnerships between the government, civil society, and the United Nations, which helped build necessary trust among key populations.
Cambodia was one of only seven countries globally to reach the earlier 90-90-90 targets in 2017, hitting that goal three years ahead of the international deadline.
What are the next steps for HIV elimination?
While the 95–95–95 targets are met, the epidemic is not over. The National AIDS Authority reports approximately 958 new HIV infections occurred in 2025, with 84% of these cases concentrated among key populations. To reach the target of fewer than 250 cases annually by 2030, the government is shifting away from donor-led projects toward a sustainable, domestic-funded system. Minister of Health Prof. Chheang Ra stated that the current priority is to “reach the last miles” by tailoring services to remain stigma-free and fully integrated into a resilient national health framework.
How does domestic financing change the HIV response?
Cambodia is moving toward a sustainability plan as external funding streams begin to decrease. This transition focuses on three pillars: increased domestic budget allocations, full integration into universal health coverage, and continued community involvement in decision-making. According to Excellency Ieng Mouly, Senior Minister and Chair of the National AIDS Authority, the country’s new challenge is maintaining these gains through stronger “country ownership.” This transition is intended to protect the progress made over the last three decades of UNAIDS support.
Comparison: Cambodia’s Progress vs. Global Goals
| Metric | Cambodia Status |
|---|---|
| Awareness (Status known) | 95% |
| Treatment (On ART) | 95% |
| Suppression (Viral load) | 95% |
Focusing on peer-led counseling and testing has proven to be the most effective way to reach marginalized groups, according to regional health reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 95–95–95 mean?
It is a set of global targets: 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed receive treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieve viral suppression.
Is the HIV epidemic in Cambodia over?
No. While the country has reached critical treatment targets, new infections continue to occur, particularly among key populations. The goal is to reduce new infections to fewer than 250 per year by 2030.
What is the biggest barrier to reaching zero new infections?
Stigma, discrimination, and a lack of knowledge regarding HIV prevention—especially among youth—remain significant obstacles to accessing testing and care.
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