Intelligence Squared debate: Should COVID-19 vaccines keep their patent protections?
India and South Africa have petitioned the World Trade Organization to suspend intellectual property protections for COVID-19 vaccines. These nations — along with a coalition of scholars, activists, and nonprofit organizations — argue that developing nations are at risk of waiting years to get full access to the vaccines unless these protections are lifted.
But their opponents say suspending patent protections will do little to speed up the manufacturing process. Instead, undermining these protections will ensure that the next time the world needs an emergency vaccine, governments and pharmaceuticals will be unable to act as swiftly.
It’s a debate emblematic of the uneven vaccine rollout, and strikes at the core of society’s ability to act quickly.
John Donvan moderates the debate on this motion:
Should COVID-19 vaccines keep their patent protection?
Brook Baker, law professor at Northeastern University and senior policy analyst, Health GAP. Baker will argue against the motion.
Thomas Cueni, director-general, International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations. Cueni will argue in favor of the motion.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.