Belize Backs Binding Guarantees for Vaccines in Future Pandemics

Belize is supporting a call for pharmaceutical companies to make firm and legally binding promises to share vaccines, medicines and testing supplies during the next pandemic.  The issue is being discussed at the World Health Organization as countries work to complete a new global Pandemic Agreement. Guyana spoke on behalf of Belize, The Bahamas, Barbados and Dominica during the latest round of negotiations.  When a new and dangerous virus or other disease emerges, countries are expected to quickly share samples and scientific information. Drug companies can then use that information to develop vaccines, treatments and medical tests.  Belize and other developing countries say the arrangement must be fair. They want drug companies to sign standard contracts clearly stating what each country will receive in return for sharing information.  The Caribbean countries say access to lifesaving products should not depend on goodwill or negotiations held after a pandemic has already started. They want the rules agreed upon in advance and enforced equally.  This is important for Belize because the country does not manufacture vaccines or most major medical products. During a global emergency, Belize could struggle to compete with larger and wealthier countries for limited supplies.  Several groups representing developing countries support binding contracts. However, the European Union and pharmaceutical companies argue that too many requirements could slow scientific research when information needs to be shared quickly.  The goal is to ensure that countries share information quickly while guaranteeing that smaller nations such as Belize receive a fair supply of any vaccines, medicines or tests developed from it.