Online Event, 16:30 CET
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has exposed vulnerabilities in the global governance of outbreaks. In this event, we examine one of them—pathogen and benefit-sharing (PBS)—in more detail. Access to pathogen samples and the sharing of the benefits that arise from their use is a growing global health concern. Across recent outbreaks, including Ebola, Zika, MERS-CoV, and the newly emergent SARS-CoV-2, questions on how samples should be shared, for what purpose, and what amounts to fair and equitable benefit-sharing from their use have been central considerations. At the culmination of a 2-year research project, we will launch our research report on the politics and practices of how pathogens and related benefits are negotiated, both globally and in the specific cases of Liberia’s Ebola (2014-2016) and Brazil’s Zika (2015-2016) epidemics. This event will bring together experts to reflect on the adequacy of existing arrangements, the need for new governance approaches, and political opportunities in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.
