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Corporate Responsibility Report 2008

Activities in sensitive countries

Some stakeholders are concerned about GSK’s business activity in countries with poor human rights records, such as Burma (Myanmar), North Korea and Sudan. We share the UN’s belief (see box) that people should not be denied access to medicines because of the regime operating in their country.

We aim to provide medicines and vaccines in all countries that need and wish to purchase them. We observe any trading controls required by law in the countries where we operate.

In many nations our long-standing commitment and presence pre-date their oppressive regimes and the subsequent introduction of measures such as trade embargoes. During periods of government-imposed trade embargoes, we have continued operations (subject to any specific legal restrictions) due to the need for our products.

In sensitive countries, as in all countries where we operate, we support and are committed to upholding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the core standards set out by the International Labour Organization. We observe all local laws and regulations.

UN statement on the right to the highest attainable standard of health

Paragraphs relating to access to medicines in sensitive countries:

  • Paragraph 12: ‘Health facilities goods and services must be accessible to everyone without discrimination, within the jurisdiction of the State party.’
  • Paragraph 41: ‘Parties should refrain at all times from imposing embargoes or similar measures restricting the supply of another State with adequate medicines and medical equipment. Restrictions on such goods should never be used as an instrument of political and economic pressure’.
  • Paragraph 42: ‘While only States are parties to the Covenant and thus ultimately accountable for compliance with it, all members of society - individuals, including health professionals, families, local communities, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, as well as the private business sector - have responsibilities regarding the realization of the right to health. State parties should therefore provide an environment which facilitates the discharge of these responsibilities.’

Read the full UN statement for the right to the highest attainable standard of health.

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