Trade rules have thwarted global efforts to fight Covid. The WTO must deliver on a vaccine IP waiver | Patricia Ranald

Low-income countries need access to technology and knowledge to produce their own vaccines, treatments and tests

As Australians struggle for access to rapid antigen tests (RATs) and third booster shots for the Omicron strain, spare a thought for millions in low-income countries where only 10% have had one vaccine dose, with even less access to tests or treatments.

World Trade Organization (WTO) member states will meet virtually this week to decide on a proposal from India and South Africa, supported by over 100 countries, including the US and Australia, for a temporary waiver on WTO rules for intellectual property monopolies on Covid-19 vaccines, tests and treatments.