The Commission’s role on the global stage in ensuring equitable access to coronavirus vaccines

Question for written answer  E-000361/2021/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 138
Vilija Blinkevičiūtė (S&D)

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a serious warning about the unequal distribution of coronavirus vaccines across the world. According to the latest data, over 39 million doses have been distributed across at least 49 high‑income countries – but just 25 doses have been administered in only one of the lowest‑income countries.

The current situation requires a global and fair response to ensure more equitable vaccine distribution. Since the EU is an increasingly important actor in global health and international affairs, and a strong supporter of the WHO’s role as the lead agency for health, both globally and regionally, it must play a leading role in the process of fair vaccine distribution.

What actions, if any, has the Commission undertaken in the WHO to ensure that coronavirus vaccines are distributed more equitably, especially to poor countries?