Fast-Track Cities 2024 Conference: Achievements and Future Directions
The Fast-Track Cities 2024 conference will take place in Paris from October 13 to 15, 2024.
The primary aim of this event is to assess the achievements of the global network that has united over 550 cities in the fight against HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis over the past decade, as well as to outline strategies for the next ten years.
Odessa, which signed the Paris Declaration in 2017, has made significant progress, as presented by Mayor Gennady Trukhanov.
Since 2017, funding for city programs has increased more than fourfold. Currently:
- 98% of people living with HIV are aware of their status;
- 96% are receiving treatment;
- 96% have an undetectable viral load.
Special attention is given to high-risk groups, with multidisciplinary teams working closely with them. A program has been implemented to assist individuals with mental health disorders related to substance abuse.
Despite the ongoing war, no social programs have been cut; on the contrary, Odessa has expanded support for vulnerable populations.
This year's conference will focus on addressing the issues faced by vulnerable communities and exchanging experiences to achieve fair and inclusive health outcomes.
«Currently, a key issue for us is creating a barrier-free environment. The experience of Paris, which hosted the Paralympic Games, serves as an inspiration. I am convinced that further collaboration and interaction will allow us to achieve even greater progress in all areas of societal life, where the main value is human health and the creation of equal opportunities», stated Gennady Trukhanov.
