Healthy Skepticism Library item: 18277
Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.
Publication type: Journal Article
Ford N, 't Hoen E, McKee M
Trade concerns must not be allowed to set the public health agenda
Lancet 2003 Jan 4; 361:(9351):71 - 72
http://www.lancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(03)12123-X/fulltext?version=printerFriendly
Abstract:
In November, 2001, trade ministers from around the world agreed to develop mechanisms to increase access to essential drugs in the developing world. Through the Doha Declaration on TRIPS and Public Health, a firm commitment was made by all members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to put health above trade concerns, stating that: “the [TRIPS] Agreement can and should be interpreted and implemented in a manner supportive of WTO Members’ right to protect public health and, in particular, to promote access to medicines for all.â€1
A year later, those same ministers met to agree in detail how to put their statement into practice. Their earlier promises are not being matched by action, and the negotiations represent a tragic U-turn in the health-trade debate.
