Inequalities in access to COVID-9 vaccines by migrants in Africa
 

Author: 

AJ Omoruyi
 

Summary:

Access to and uptake of vaccines was a major pillar of the global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. There were, however, glaring inequalities in access between and within countries, with low and middle-income countries and previously vulnerable and marginalised populations mostly affected. This book chapter adapts the theory of intersectionality as a framework to assess the marginalization of certain groups of people in accessing COVID-19 vaccines in Africa. This theory is important in understanding the varied experiences of discrimination by different groups based on their peculiar identities. One clear impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been the deepening of inequality and vulnerabilities for people marginalized by the intersection of various factors such as race, ethnicity, national origin, immigration status, disability, gender, age, and income, among others. The book chapter draws insights from the challenges faced by foreign nationals with various temporary or permanent residence permits, such as migrant workers, asylum seekers, refugees, and undocumented migrants. It emphasizes the need to contextualize the impact of a public health emergency on various groups and design responses accordingly. While the discussions here relate to the COVID-19 pandemic and access to vaccines for vulnerable groups, the lessons can be applied in future public health crises to ensure everyone can access needed health services rather than just vaccines.


Link to book chapter