Developing countries must not be considered "off-limits" to European texts

The Commission opposes an amendment aimed at allowing patented drugs to be exported to a country having delivered the compulsory licence, by a manufacturer who is not the patent holder. However, this amendment (196, article 1 point 7) is simply intended to show that Europe is resolutely committed, in keeping with the Doha Declaration, to ensuring access to medicines in the poorest countries.
Rejecting this amendment out of hand would be irresponsible. Amendment 196 article 1 point 7 must be upheld.

©La revue Prescrire, for the Medicines in Europe Forum 7 April 2003