The AIDS epidemic, described by the United Nations as the "most destructive in human history" and accounting for more than 25 million deaths so far, is still a growing threat to global progress and stability. "AIDS is one of the greatest leadership challenges of our time," says U.N. Secretary-General in a new report released in advance of a U.N. special session on AIDS. "Without urgent and long-term action," he warned, "the epidemic will continue to take an unacceptable toll of death and suffering in countries and communities throughout the world."