Interactive Dialogue with High Commissioner on Access to COVID-19 Vaccines

Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America

As delivered by Ms. Branka Bell

Human Rights Council – 52nd Session

Thank you, Mr. President.

We thank the High Commissioner for this report on affordable, timely, equitable, and universal access to COVID-19 vaccines.

It has been over three years since the COVID-19 pandemic began and, while we have made incredible strides with vaccines, there is still more work to be done.

The United States has led the charge by donating over 680 million vaccine doses worldwide bilaterally and in partnership with COVAX, the African Vaccine Acquisition Trust, and Caricom.

Access to safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines is vital to the achievement of SDG 3 and the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.

The report accurately notes the importance of responding to the dangerous misinformation, disinformation, and politicization of health information around the COVID-19 vaccine to improve vaccine confidence. Vaccines are only effective if people are willing to get them.

The United States will continue to do our part to ensure that everyone has access to safe and effective vaccinations.

Director Hicks, what strategies have been the most successful in combatting misinformation and disinformation in this context?

I thank you.

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