DWB

Around the first week February I heard a news story on National Public Radio that spoke of the organization, Doctors Without Borders, arranging drastically reduced prices for the AIDS "cocktail" for people in the Third World countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. They made a deal with an Indian firm called Cipra for a yearly cost per patient of around $300 per year, compared with the normal $10,000 per patient, per year cost. However, many of the large pharmaceutical companies are threatening to file suit over patent infringement because Cipra manufactures the the drugs as generic. I was absolutely shocked that a company could be so callous about something like this where it is so desperately needed. I have posted requests for further information from several of the larger pharmaceuticals, Doctors Without Borders and Public National Radio. As of 20/03/01 I've only received comment back from Doctors Without Borders. Their website includes a petition urging the 39 companies to drop their lawsuit against the South African Goverment. Please visit their website at http://www.msf.org/ (Link at bottom of page) and "sign" the petition. Urge your friends, family and co-workers to sign it as well. Together, all of us will make a difference!
I have read and listened to as much information regarding this subject as I could get my hands on. I am not ignorant of the fact that the pharmaceutical companies are for profit or that some of that profit goes towards more research and development. Many of the pharmaceutical companies make huge profits even after their research and development costs are factored in.
This Issue then, becomes a matter of blatant Corporate Greed. I've come to the conclusion that the more wealthy countries will have to pay more for these medications to make up the difference for the countries who do not have the means to do so. The wealthier nations should make provision for their own citizens who also need assistance. If we do not do something right now, inaction will result in Genocide.
At first I was discouraged by the lack of response to my inquiries on how the situation was prgressing. I did figure out that the entities may may not have been able to respond due to the legal ramifications. Lately, however, I have seen a ray of hope. Not only are a large number of diverse organizations taking up the cause, but on March 15, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. announced they would sell these medications at below cost in the Third World countries. Both are an excellent beginning. However, more needs to be done. I believe that the best way to achieve it is to build a strong grass roots awareness. Then, each person should pray that the individual companies and company executives will have a turn of heart. Everyone you know of should visit the Doctors Without Borders site and sign the petition. Also, anyone who knows a direct contact for the pharmaceutical companies should tell them directly that we all think they should do all they can for the less fortunate in the Third World.
Finally, if the companies do not begin to behave as Responsible Global Neighbours, we should actively campaign to boycott thier products. Hurting their bottom line would get their attention. I do see this as a drastic last step.
This issue goes to the core of every ethical and/or religious creed known to humanity - helping your neighbour. In this Millenium we cannot ignore our Global Neighbours simply because they are in remote parts of our Planet. Together we can make a difference, if this issue is not important, what is?
In case any of you are wondering, I am not writing this as a regular AIDS activist. I am a married, heterosexual middle class man who has learned how large scale this illness has become among Third World countries, AIDS has killed whole villages and their extended families due to lack of education and/or medical care/treatments.
Speaking out like this is actually very rare for me. I figure that my little bit can become part of greater whole to make a positive difference.

MC.