Founded in 1994 through a resolution by the UN Economic and Social Council and officially launched in January 1996, UNAIDS operates under the guidance of a Programme Coordinating Board (PCB) that includes representatives from 22 governments across various geographic regions. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the organization is dedicated to delivering effective responses to the global HIV/AIDS pandemic by uniting the necessary expertise, experience, and institutional mandates to combat the crisis.

UNAIDS also recruits Goodwill Ambassadors, who are distinguished individuals from the realms of arts, entertainment, sports, and other public sectors, committed to advancing the AIDS response. Notable ambassadors include singer Victoria Beckham, actress Naomi Watts, and fashion designer Kenneth Cole. Additionally, UN Special Envoys for HIV/AIDS are appointed by the United Nations Secretary-General to promote the AIDS agenda within their respective regions.