The unprecedented times we are currently experiencing have brought challenges to every aspect of our lives, from challenges to our way of life to the values and principles we hold on. In the past months, scientists and organizations worldwide have been scrambling for a solution to solve the mega-scaled problem of Covid-19. Currently, medications such as antibody treatments and vaccines are on the pipeline, many of which are on the verge of completion. However, it immediately begs the question: Upon completion, who will obtain it first?
Several weeks ago, the United States bought nearly three months' worth of the world's supply of remdesivir, a drug used to speed up recovery of Covid-19 patients. The adoption of the "America first" attitude by the United States has left many questioning and disappointed. This unilateral action sets the stage for future events: when a vaccine is found, will the same happen? After all, the manufacturing of 8 billion doses of Covid-19 will undoubtedly take a considerable amount of time. Through the lenses of the current events, it seems that wealthier countries (first-world countries) with their deep pockets will secure access to the Covid-19 for their entire population first, depriving the countries who cannot afford or produce from any form of access to the Covid-19 vaccine.
There must be global equitable access to Covid-19 medications. Priority access to high-risk groups and vulnerable communities throughout the world is necessary. The distribution must not be per country, as the implications of doing so would be outrageous. It would imply that lives in one country are worth more than others. Instead, the distribution of Covid-19 medications, including vaccines, should be based on an assessment of those who need it most. This is the time for the world to unite, and I believe this cliché phrase encapsulates the core principle the world should hold on to: "One for all, and all for one."
by Michael L.
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