Friday 18 Dec 2020 @ 11:43
Chatham House
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COVID-19 Vaccine: Reaching People in Areas Controlled by Armed Groups

EXPERT COMMENT

Counterterrorism measures do not prohibit the provision of medical assistance – including vaccinations – or engagement with members of ‘terrorist’ groups in order to do so.

According to ICRC estimates, some 66 million people currently live in areas controlled by organized armed groups, beyond state control. Frequently displaced, malnourished, deprived of access to medical care and adequate sanitary facilities, and often living in overcrowded settlements or accommodation, they are among the most vulnerable to COVID-19.

'No-one is safe until everyone is safe' has been the WHO director-general’s mantra throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. What does this mean for the provision of vaccines to people living in areas under the control of armed groups?

Their entitlement to the vaccine is undisputed as a matter of international law. The right to health requires states to take measures to prevent, treat and control epidemics, including by providing immunization without discrimination.

Click here to continue reading the full version of this Expert Comment on the Chatham House website.

 

Channel website: https://www.chathamhouse.org/

Original article link: https://www.chathamhouse.org/2020/12/covid-19-vaccine-reaching-people-areas-controlled-armed-groups

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