In June 2024 the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) announced the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU): with the Pasteur Network and the Emerging Infectious Diseases Agency in France (ANRS MIE). The MoU with Pasteur Network will “bolster their collaboration in global health initiatives” and the MoU with ANRS MIE seeks to “foster high quality clinical research with a particular focus on addressing the healthcare needs of low- and middle-income countries”.
Pasteur Network Memorandum of Understanding
The MoU outlines a framework for cooperation between the two organisations, focusing on several “critical areas”:
- Vaccine R&D ecosystem – strengthening vaccine research and development, particularly in the global South. This includes regional manufacturing of vaccines and enhancing public health responses to epidemic and pandemic emergencies.
- Training and education – supporting joint training and educational activities to build capacity and expertise in vaccine research and development.
- Collaborative projects – actively pursuing funding opportunities and developing joint proposals for research and training programmes.
The partnership is to be guided by a Steering Committee with regular reviews and progress on collaborative projects. Both organisations have committed to “clear communication, transparency, and adherence to policies on anti-fraud, corruption, equity, and sustainability”.
“This MoU represents a strategic alignment of resources and expertise, setting the stage for innovative solutions to global health challenges. Together, the Pasteur Network and IVI are poised to make a lasting impact on global health, particularly in regions that are most vulnerable to infectious diseases.”
Dr Jerome H. Kim, Director General of IVI, commented that the MoU will “empower us to leverage our collective expertise and amplify our efforts in combating infectious diseases worldwide”.
“This collaboration will support IVI’s capabilities in vaccine research and development, enabling us to tackle health challenges more effectively. Together, we will generate synergies to drive innovation of life-saving vaccines for the populations who need them most.”
Dr Rebecca F. Grais, Executive Director of the Pasteur Network, looks forward to “combining our strengths and resources”.
“We aim to accelerate vaccine development and improve accessibility, particularly in underserved regions. This collaboration is a crucial step towards our shared vision of a healthier world.”
ANRS MIE Memorandum of Understanding
This MoU will engage members of the ANRS MIE international network, reaching across countries such as Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Mali, Senegal, Vietnam, and Zambia. Dr Jerome H. Kim believes that the MoU “not only underscores our shared commitment to combating infectious diseases in the hardest-hit regions but also ignites a new era of collaboration and innovation”.
“By merging our expertise, we can significantly strengthen clinical research capacities in low- and middle-income countries. Together, we are well-positioned to make a profound and lasting impact on global health.”
We look forward to welcoming Dr Kim back to the Congress in Europe this October; do get your tickets to hear from him there, and don’t forget to subscribe for more vaccine updates.
