Summarised by Centrist
New Zealand Doctors Speaking Out with Science (NZDSOS) voices its strong opposition to the proposed amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005 by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Key among NZDSOS’ concerns is the potential to make WHO’s recommendations binding, potentially infringing on individual freedoms and democratic rights.
Furthermore, NZDSOS criticises the shift in language from respecting individual dignity and rights to prioritising “equity, inclusivity, and coherence,” which they argue could dilute the focus on individual freedoms.
The amendments suggesting WHO’s control over public health assistance, intellectual property, and health product distribution are particularly troubling for the group, as they could prioritise corporate interests over public welfare. The introduction of digital identities and vaccine passports for travel is another point of contention, with NZDSOS arguing for the preservation of free movement rights.
The overarching call from NZDSOS is for New Zealand to reconsider its membership in WHO, suggesting that the organisation’s current trajectory is too influenced by vested interests to be trustable or reformable.
Give your feedback on the proposed amendments to the International Health Regulations (2005) via the link below.
