Fast-Track Cities 2024 Conference: Advancing the Fight Against Epidemics

The Fast-Track Cities 2024 Conference will take place in Paris from October 13 to 15, 2024.

This event aims to reflect on a decade of a global network that has united over 550 cities in the fight against HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis epidemics, while also establishing priorities for the next ten years.

Odessa, which signed the Paris Declaration in 2017, has made significant progress, as presented by Mayor Hennadiy 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 with them. A support program for individuals with mental health issues due to substance use has been implemented.

Despite the war, no social programs have been cut, and in fact, Odessa has expanded its assistance to vulnerable populations.

This year’s conference will focus on addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable communities and exchanging experiences to achieve equitable and inclusive health outcomes.

«Currently, a key issue for us is creating an accessible environment. The experience of Paris, which hosted the Paralympic Games, is inspiring. I am convinced that continued cooperation and interaction will allow us to achieve even greater progress in all areas of societal life, where the primary value is human health and the creation of equal opportunities,» emphasized Hennadiy Trukhanov.