

Europe’s Vaccination Problem
Apr 12, 2021
Matina Stevis-Gridneff, a Brussels correspondent for The New York Times, dives into Europe's rocky vaccination journey. She reveals how the EU's cautious procurement strategies have led to serious delays, lagging behind countries like the U.S. and Israel. The discussion unpacks the public's diminishing trust in the AstraZeneca vaccine due to safety concerns and the EU's struggles with political pressure. Despite these challenges, Matina highlights the need for unity among member states and the potential ramifications on public health and tourism.
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Early Pandemic Failures
- During the initial COVID-19 outbreak, countries like Germany and France hoarded PPE.
- This left Italy, severely impacted by the virus, without essential supplies.
EU Vaccine Strategy
- To prevent similar issues with vaccines, the EU centralized procurement.
- They aimed to ensure fair distribution and better negotiating terms.
Differing Approaches
- The US invested heavily in vaccine development through Operation Warp Speed.
- The EU acted more like a consumer, prioritizing cost-effectiveness.