Introduction

Prioritising key populations is central to achieving impact in HIV prevention under Global Fund Cycle 8 (GC8). As countries navigate constrained resources and evolving epidemics, there is an urgent need for evidence-driven, inclusive, and community-led programming. This 14th KP CoP webinar series was convened by the Global HIV Prevention Coalition (GPC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the Global Fund, and SSLN, bringing together global and country stakeholders to share evidence, tools, and practical experiences aimed at strengthening HIV prevention for key populations.

Objectives

• Share evidence to support key population networks, implementing partners, and governments in prioritising programming for key populations in GC8
• Deepen stakeholders’ understanding of key tools available to support the development of the key population prevention section of the GC8 proposal
• Learn from government and community networks to strengthen advocacy and ensure effective prioritisation of key populations in Global Fund proposals.

Proceedings

Clarice Pinto (WHO) opened the session, setting the context for strengthening meaningful engagement of key populations in GC8.

• Maria Phelan (The Global Fund) presented on the use of evidence to prioritise key populations and align investments for impact. The presentation highlighted the need to improve efficiency through the optimisation and integration of HIV services, while deliberately protecting community-led delivery systems and ensuring uninterrupted, stigma-free access for key populations.

• Clemens Benedikt (GPC) presented global tools and updated WHO guidance to support HIV prevention for key populations in GC8, highlighting a prioritised, evidence-based package of interventions spanning structural, biomedical, and service delivery approaches. The session emphasised human rights–based, community-led, and integrated service models to improve access, maintain continuity of care, and strengthen the impact and sustainability of HIV prevention programmes for key populations

Country Presentations

• Velta Parkhomenko (Ukraine) and Dr Kwadwo Koduah Owusu (NACP, Ghana) presented on prioritising and programming HIV prevention for key populations in GC8, highlighting cross-cutting challenges in Global Fund applications, including limited availability of reliable KP data, stigma and discriminatory legal environments, weak linkage between evidence and budgeting, and limited involvement of KP-led organisations in proposal development.

Panel Discusison

• ‍Clarice Pinto (WHO) led a panel discussion with Maria Phelan (The Global Fund), Clemens Benedikt (GPC), Velta Parkhomenko (Ukraine), and Dr Kwadwo Koduah Owusu (Ghana). The discussion highlighted practical experiences and lessons on strengthening prevention, improving efficiency, and ensuring meaningful participation of key population communities in GC8.

‍Resources

Session recordings and presentations can be accessed below.

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