Refugees in Jordan Receive COVID-19 Vaccines

Jordan has become one of the world’s first countries to start COVID-19 vaccinations for refugees, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), reported on January 14, 2021.

UNHCR is aware that of the 78 countries currently developing national COVID-19 vaccination strategies, about half (39) have committed to include refugees, with low-to-middle income countries identified as priority countries for support.

UNHCR has been advocating for the equitable inclusion of refugees, internally displaced, and stateless populations through the COVAX Facility a global initiative that brings together governments and manufacturers to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines eventually reach those in greatest need.

COVAX is co-led by Gavi, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, and the WHO, with a focus on guaranteeing fair and equitable vaccine access for every country in the world.

“The international community must do more to support host governments with access to the vaccines. Global and equitable access is what will ultimately protect lives and stem the pandemic,” said UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, in a press statement.