In the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the development of vaccines offers hope for global health action. But the task of distributing the vaccine has multiple human rights concerns, including issues of vaccine nationalism and equitable distribution to marginalised communities. What human rights issues are raised with the process of distributing the vaccine? How much do wealth and privilege determine who gets vaccinated? Doug Becker speaks with Heather Wipfli and Joanne Lin.

Heather Wipfli is an Associate Professor of Clinical Preventive Medicine and International Relations at the University of Southern California. Her research focuses on international cooperation and governance approaches to improve health.

Joanne Lin is the National Director of Advocacy and Government Affairs at Amnesty International, USA.

Podcast:

 

This interview originally aired on the Scholars’ Circle. To access our archive of episodes and download this interview, click here.

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For more information on COVID-19, head to the Ministry of Health website.

Disclaimer: The ideas expressed in this discussion reflect the views of the guests and not necessarily the views of The Big Q. 

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