Statement from Global Citizen re: Global Forum for Vaccine Sovereignty and Innovation in Paris

“While the world’s attention is distracted by conflicts and political instability, this vaccination summit is an important opportunity to ensure we learn the lessons from the COVID pandemic and that leaders step up to improve health security worldwide.

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, is seeking new funding of $9 billion for the next five years, which will allow to immunize 500 million more children, save at least another 8 million lives, and generate over $100 billion in economic benefits.

Thanks to Spain’s 25% increase in its contribution, the replenishment campaign is off to a great start. Other countries now need to follow Spain’s lead, step up and do their part to ensure Gavi can reach its ambitious goals.

The US administration’s pledge of at least $1.58B over 5 years, announced by First Lady Jill Biden, represents a welcomed increase, but needs to be strengthened further, also in cooperation with Congress.

The African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator will not only help the African Union reach its goal of producing at least 60% of Africa’s vaccine demand in Africa by 2040, but also help ensure the world is better prepared for the next pandemic threat.

Today, $1.2 billion was committed for AVMA, with major contributions from Team Europe. For AVMA’s objectives to succeed, a successful Gavi replenishment is essential. All donors must contribute by increasing their funding by at least 20%. For the European Commission, a staunch supporter of Gavi, this means increasing its contribution to €360 million.”

— Friederike Röder, Vice President at Global Citizen