Access for All – Medicines Patent Pool Gains Recognition in Communique
Medicins Patent Pool, an NGO dedicated to improving access to essential medications for those affected by HIV/AIDS, was thrilled to have its work recognized in the communique, which had the following statement: “we welcome the Patent Pool Initiative launched by UNITAID in order to facilitate production of affordable generic medicines well-adapted for use in resource-poor settings, and we invite the voluntary participation of patent owners, private and public, in the project.”
Endorsement in the communique is a huge step for this member of civil society. “This further solidifies growing international support for the Medicines Patent Pool…the endorsement of the G8, where the majority of the HIV medicines patent-holding companies are based, is particularly welcome and will encourage additional companies to engage in negotiations with the Pool,” commented executive director Ellen ‘t Hoen.