Verbatim report of proceedings

Wednesday, 24 November 2021 - Strasbourg

The EU's role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic: how to vaccinate the world (topical debate)

  Tomas Tobé, on behalf of the PPE Group. – Madam President, like the Commissioner and Minister I would of course also highlight the low vaccination rate we see in Africa. It is extremely worrying. This is threatening lives and livelihoods across the continent, but I would also say that it is preventing us from achieving the vital goal, and that is to vaccinate the world.

Now, more than ever, Europe must embrace global solidarity, multilateralism and partnership. We must continue to employ the Team Europe approach, double—down on our efforts to support the COVAX Facility, share more doses, resolve supply chain bottlenecks, ensure that global supply chains remain open and continue to support the expansion of Africa’s vaccine manufacturing.

These concrete actions set out a truly effective global strategy that directly translates into more shots in the arm, as well as building resilience for future pandemics. This approach strongly contrasts with the empty symbolism of the TRIPS waiver, which would not only be ineffective but even harmful, with a negative impact on our readiness for future health crises.

As Chair of Parliament’s Committee on Development, I strongly support the ambitious vaccine pledges made by the Commission and the Member States. However, my support comes with one crucial condition, and that is that these pledges will be honoured. I think we should be proud that Europe is doing more than others, but let’s make sure that we keep leading the work and end this pandemic together.