The co-chairs of the House Global Health Caucus introduced a resolution in support of the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations (GAVI).
GAVI is dedicated to saving the lives of children in the world’s poorest countries by improving access to new and underutilized vaccines. Since 2000, 760 million children have received immunizations. This has prevented the deaths of more than 13 million people. The resolution (H.Res.861) affirms U.S. support for GAVI’s work.
In August 2019, GAVI launched a fundraising initiative to raise $7.4 billion to immunize an additional 300 million children from 2021 to 2025 period. U.S. support is critical to reaching that goal.
“The United States government has proudly supported GAVI since its founding 20 years ago and has continued to support the alliance every year since,” Rep. Susan Brooks (R-IN), the co-chair of the House Global Health Caucus and one of the resolutionʻs authors, said. “Children are the world’s most valuable resources. Governments around the world should prioritize funding for GAVI to ensure that all children have continued access to affordable vaccines. We must continue to fund this crucial alliance to prevent illnesses, which not only keeps our children healthy and safe but delivers economic benefits globally.”
The resolution is endorsed by several organizations, including PATH, Save The Children, RESULTS, UN Foundation Shot@Life campaign, ONE Campaign, and World Vision.
“I’m proud to introduce H.Res.861 to recognize, celebrate, and recommit to the success of GAVI and the United States’ role in ensuring continued progress in ending preventable maternal and child deaths,” Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN), the other co-chair of the caucus and author of the resolution, said. “Vaccines are one of the most efficient and cost-effective interventions in global health, and GAVI’s work has saved millions of lives and helped reduce poverty. With continued U.S. leadership and long-term commitment, we can achieve better, brighter futures for more people, families, and communities around the world. I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining me in support of these important efforts. Together, we can help ensure every child – regardless of where they are born – has the opportunity to thrive.”
The bill was also co-sponsored by Reps. Barbara Lee (D-CA), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Adam Smith (D-WA), and Ted Yoho (R-FL).
“Vaccines are critical in our fight to end preventable diseases around the globe,” Lee said. “As a member of the State and Foreign Operations Appropriations subcommittee, I have long fought to prioritize funding for life-saving programs like GAVI. We must continue to fund this important program to ensure everyone – regardless of where they live – can lead safe and healthy lives.”