U.S. Rep. Susan Brooks (R-IN) on Feb. 21 introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations (GAVI).
“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,” Rep. Brooks said.
Rep. Brooks is the lead original cosponsor of House Resolution (H.Res.) 861 with sponsor U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN) to support the role of the United States in helping save the lives of children and protecting the health of people in poor countries with vaccines and immunization through the GAVI Alliance. Reps. Brooks and McCollum are co-chairs of the Global Health Caucus.
In August 2019, GAVI launched its third replenishment cycle with a goal of fundraising $7.4 billion to immunize an additional 300 million children from 2021 through 2025 and U.S. support is critical to help reach that goal.
If enacted, the legislation would affirm the United States’ continued support for GAVI’s work to end preventable maternal and child deaths and encourage continued commitment and investment to GAVI, which since its inception in 2000 has provided 760 million children with immunizations, preventing the deaths of more than 13 million people.
“The United States government has proudly supported GAVI since its founding 20 years ago and has continued to support the alliance every year since,” said Rep. Brooks. “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.”
“No child’s life should be at risk because of curable, preventable diseases,” added U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), another original cosponsor of the resolution. “Through GAVI’s work, the developing world has become more capable of preventing disease and improving pediatric care. I encourage all of my colleagues to support this resolution, and let children around the world know that we care about their health and well-being.”
The resolution is endorsed by PATH, Save The Children, RESULTS, UN Foundation Shot@Life campaign, ONE Campaign, and World Vision.