• To pay tribute to Father Michael Kelly’s ongoing legacy, the IGHN has produced a compilation of lectures and presentations from 2006-2015, entitled HIV & AIDS – A Deep Human Concern. Download it here.

For over 50 years, Tullamore-born Professor Father Michael J. Kelly has worked tirelessly in the fight against HIV/AIDS in his naturalised country of Zambia, and internationally, spreading the message of strength, dignity, and hope for those affected and at risk.

Much has been learned about the response to the COVID-19 pandemic from years of experience in dealing with HIV and AIDS, both in terms of community engagement and leadership. 

With higher risks of infection for people in certain groups, including in healthcare settings and among vulnerable groups, learnings about HIV stigma, testing, treatment and prevention programmes can all be leveraged as we join in solidarity in the face of this global pandemic. 

It is important to remember that HIV and AIDS has not gone away. And more than ever, we must call on all communities to redouble efforts so that the progress thus far achieved is not eroded. An important learning of the HIV response is that it a true global health challenge, that like COVID-19 does not recognise borders.  

We will hear from speakers in Ethiopia, South Africa, Ireland and Switzerland – speakers this year will come from a variety of backgrounds, but all have one goal in common – solidarity in the face of HIV in their communities.