In the 1980s, HIV struck fear into the hearts of people around the world. The AIDS crisis has claimed millions of lives to this day. It was not until 1996 that the first effective drug came onto the market. Today, it is possible to live well with HIV – provided you are on treatment. Over three episodes, this podcast tells the story of HIV and AIDS in Switzerland:

• FUCK: What impact has HIV had – and continues to have – on love and sexuality?
• FIGHT: What battles were fought during the AIDS crisis – and are still being fought today?
• CARE: Who looked after all the people who were ostracised because of their illness?

We spoke to people who lived through the outbreak of the AIDS epidemic and were affected by it themselves. To people who were not afraid to get involved and who fought against the virus and stigmatisation. And to people who are living with HIV today.

“With this podcast, we want to bring history to life – not as a retrospective, but as part of our present,” says Florian Vock, deputy director of the Swiss AIDS Federation. “These people’s voices speak of pain, courage, loss and love – and of what solidarity can achieve in a society.”

Charity concert ‘Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens’

To mark World AIDS Day 2025, the Swiss AIDS Federation is bringing the song cycle ‘Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens’ to Switzerland for the first time. The work by Bill Russell (lyrics) and Janet Hood (music) combines songs and monologues into a moving reflection on living and dying with HIV – on love, grief, solidarity and dignity.

“This anniversary is a moment to pause and reflect,” says Florian Vock. “We remember the many people we have lost, and all those who have fought for decades for dignity, awareness and equality. At the same time, it is a call to carry on – for a world in which no one is marginalised because of HIV, their sexuality or their background.”