Reconciling patent rights and the human right to access to essential medicines: A critical review

Bhavna  Mahadew

doi:10.59400/ephr1766

Bhavna Mahadew University of Technology, Pointe aux sables 11108, Mauritius

Article ID: 1766

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.59400/ephr1766

Keywords: essential medicines; access; right to health; patent rights; human right

Abstract

Over 80% of the world’s population lives in developing nations, with limited access to medicines like AIDS and malaria. Competition between patented and generic medications can improve access and lower prices, but counterfeit medicines should be avoided. The Doha Declaration, released at the World Trade Organisation Ministerial Conference in 2001, aims to support nations’ rights to safeguard public health and encourage access to medicines. It aims to influence the interpretation and application of the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement) in a manner that is health-friendly, considering the responsibility of nations to uphold health rights under international law. The Declaration calls for developed nations to encourage practical solutions for poor people in developing countries, emphasizing that trade agreements should be secondary to defending human rights and achieving the best quality of health for all. International human rights treaties protect the universal human right to health, but rigid trade agreements on patents can hinder affordable medication for low-income populations in developing nations. TRIPS, a treaty that protects intellectual property rights and promotes technological innovation, aims to provide inexpensive medications for HIV/AIDS patients through exclusions from patent admissibility, exceptions, parallel importing, and compulsory licensing.

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