Economist Podcasts Export-control panel: the EU meets on vaccines
Mar 25, 2021
In this discussion, John Peet, Political and Brexit editor for The Economist, sheds light on the complex EU-UK vaccine dispute amidst export control tensions. He highlights the disparities in vaccination processes, particularly regarding AstraZeneca. The conversation also touches on the controversial elections in the Republic of Congo, marred by manipulation and low turnout. Additionally, the discussion explores the historical ineffectiveness of inbred European royalty, emphasizing how lineage has impacted leadership throughout history.
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EU Vaccine Export Controls
- The EU proposes new vaccine export controls, aiming to protect its supply chains and address its slower rollout.
- This move targets countries with better vaccination rates or those not reciprocating exports, especially the UK.
UK as Primary Target
- The EU's export controls primarily target the UK due to its higher vaccination rate and receipt of EU vaccine exports without reciprocation.
- Support for controls is mixed, with some countries like France and Italy in favor, while others like Sweden, Finland, and Belgium worry about negative industry impacts.
AstraZeneca Dispute
- The EU accuses AstraZeneca of prioritizing the UK in vaccine supply, claiming production issues hindered EU deliveries.
- AstraZeneca maintains it hasn't breached its contract, highlighting the UK's more stringent contract terms compared to the EU's looser agreement.