Human Rights Council – 59^th session

Adoptions: Explanation of vote delivered by Iceland on resolution A/HRC/59/L.8

Access to medicines, vaccines and other health products

Mr. President,

Iceland thanks the core group for presenting draft resolution L.8. Iceland recognises the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.

Further we note that the Constitution of the World Health Organization also recognizes the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health as a fundamental right of every human being, without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition.

Access to medicines, vaccines and other health products is crucial for preventing and treating diseases. Ensuring access for everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, geographic location, or other factors, is vital for upholding human dignity and equality. Iceland is strongly committed to this goal.

Regarding draft resolution L.8, we remain concerned about references in the text to the Pandemic Agreement which do not fully reflect the carefully negotiated language used and agreed at WHO and the World Health Assembly.

For these reasons, Iceland will abstain on L.8.