While everybody recognises that health is an essential precondition for development, the research and innovation dimension of global health has too often been sidelined in the development discourse. The discussion around the post-2015 development framework is no exception. However, robust investments into new and improved health technologies including vaccines, diagnostics, and drugs for poverty-related and neglected diseases (PRNDs) are critical to achieve the right to health for all.
A position paper supported by 23 leading global health organisations from both Europe and the United States calls on governments, civil society and other stakeholders involved in the development of the post-2015 framework to ensure that any future health goal encompasses R&D-specific targets related to the development of new, safe, effective, affordable and accessible health technologies to fight PRNDs.
PRNDs, which are primarily endemic in developing countries, affect more than one billion people and claim millions of lives every year. Associated morbidity and negative socioeconomic consequences hinder the development and economic growth of affected countries, and push individuals and communities further into poverty. As a consequence of limited market incentives for the pharmaceutical industry, tools to prevent, diagnose and treat PRNDs are often lacking or are unsuitable to the conditions of populations in developing countries, for instance due to the length of the treatment or the need for advanced technology to conserve a drug or provide an appropriate diagnosis.
Global Health Advocates believes that the post-2015 framework represents a great opportunity to commit governments to address one of the most pressing global health challenges of our time, while fostering equity within and among countries and strengthening health systems to achieve Universal Health Coverage.
Please join our effort and call for the inclusion of global health research and development in the post-2015 development agenda.
You can find the full document and the list of signatories here.
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