A safe and effective vaccine is expected to reduce the health and life risks posed by COVID-19, while allowing, at the same time, a progressive lifting of some restrictive measures that have been necessary to combat the spread of the virus.

It will also help to recover from the serious negative effects which these measures have had on the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights, especially by the most disadvantaged and marginalized populations.

For that reason, it is important and encouraging news for the world that several vaccines for COVID-19 might be approved soon by health authorities, after following the relevant World Health Organization (WHO) technical guidance documents for COVID-19 vaccines and other biologicals in order to guarantee their safety and effectiveness.

In that context, the Committee considers it necessary to remind State parties of their obligation under the Covenant in this area, in order to avoid unjustified discrimination and inequalities in the access to vaccines for COVID-19.

Statement by the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights