Interview with Dr. Georg Kippels, MP Germany

Why do you see the protection of human rights as so important for the success of the HIV response?

UNAIDS reports highlight a concerning trend: At a moment when the global goal of ending AIDS could be in reach, the persistence of exclusion and stigmatization and an increase in harmful policies are blocking the way, and perpetuating the AIDS pandemic. Affected groups are often denied their basic human rights, including dignity, equitable access to healthcare, and societal support. Discrimination rooted in gender inequality, sexuality, or religious beliefs further marginalizes these groups, leaving them particularly vulnerable. The recent global increase in anti-rights, anti-gender and anti-democracy policies are exacerbating this risk. This harms not only key populations but entire nations, because when access to essential services such as HIV diagnosis and treatment is restricted, the resulting gaps put every member of society at risk. It undermines the health system's ability to respond effectively to HIV and AIDS, creating ripple effects across society. Addressing these challenges requires adopting a human rights lens within a comprehensive "whole-of-society" approach.

By tackling harmful policies, combating stigma, and ensuring universal access to healthcare services, we can create a sustainable and effective response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic that leaves no one behind.

Why is the protection of human rights important to you personally?

As a Member of Parliament, I have the privilege of engaging with a broad range of stakeholders—from governments to non-state actors—and gaining insight into the critical global health challenges of our time including the HIV/AIDS pandemic. While these discussions are invaluable, they cannot replace the profound impact of conversations with individuals directly affected by HIV and AIDS. Hearing from them about their struggles to access diagnosis and treatment, living with stigma, or struggling to adhere to treatment, and of living with the burden of co-morbidities in contexts where appropriate care is unavailable, has profoundly shaped my perspective.

Over the years, I’ve come to understand that safeguarding human rights is not just an ethical imperative but a cornerstone for effective global health and development policies.

These two areas have been close to my heart since I was first elected to the German Parliament in 2013.

What are some reforms you'd like to see to help protect rights?

Looking ahead, I believe we need to break down sectoral silos and develop cross-cutting, multisectoral solutions that address global health, development, and human rights as interconnected issues. Universal health coverage, for example, is not only a public health necessity but also a key driver of economic prosperity in developing societies. Likewise, we must champion the human rights dimensions of existential health threats like AIDS. This advocacy should extend beyond health-related discussions to include foreign policy and trade cooperation. By integrating human rights into every facet of our global engagements, we can create a more equitable world for all.

What gives you hope that we can win the fight for rights for all and win the fight to end AIDS?

Over my decade-long tenure as a parliamentarian working in development and global health policy, I’ve encountered countless brilliant leaders and innovative solutions in this field. These experiences remind me that the knowledge and tools needed to combat AIDS already exist and many more are developed as we speak. Our role as policymakers is to empower those on the frontlines to implement these solutions where they are most needed. I am especially hopeful about the shift to systemic, equity-focused approaches, e.g. by integrating HIV and AIDS with other health care services, and integration across sectors, for example into social protection schemes. These solutions have immense potential to improve health outcomes, strengthen health systems, and support progress towards universal health coverage. Furthermore, supporting local manufacturing capabilities and fostering regionally adapted solutions are promising developments that can be further strengthened.

Witnessing the progress already made inspires confidence that we can continue building momentum and, ultimately, achieve our shared goal of ending AIDS.