Covid-19 Vaccine Producers Have Human Rights Responsibilities
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Pharma Companies Should Adopt Rights-Based Approach to Help Bridge Vaccine Gap
Over the last few weeks, the relief brought on by the Covid-19 vaccine roll-out has been marred by supply delays and growing concerns around inequitable access. Of the more than 131 million doses given in 73 countries by February 8, 78 percent (more than 102.48 million doses) went to people in the United States, China, within the European Union, and the United Kingdom. The World Health Organization reported an alarming statistic: by February 5, not a single dose was administered in 130 countries with 2.5 billion people.
Bridging the vaccine gap requires a human rights approach. Governments have the primary responsibility to ensure everyone, everywhere has access to a safe and effective Covid-19 vaccine. But companies have human rights responsibilities too.