In recent years, the importance of vaccine has been highlighted. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the capacity gaps of many countries, including those within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), when it comes to ensuring timely access to vaccines. Like other regions, ASEAN has recognized the urgent need to strengthen vaccine ecosystem/infrastructure by using the ASEAN Vaccine Security and Self-Reliance (AVSSR) initiative to cope with these problems.

The AVSSR initiative was not solely created in response to regional vaccine security challenges but has been a part of ASEAN’s vision in response to the pandemic crisis as well. This effort was initiated by Thailand through the National Vaccine Institute (NVI) in 2014 to bolster regional capabilities in vaccine development and enhance regional vaccine accessibility. The notable milestones of the AVSSR are the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on AVSSR, which was officially adopted by member countries’ leaders during the 35^th ASEAN Summit in 2019. A year later, its strategic and action plan was subsequently endorsed by ASEAN Health Ministers and became one of the regional vital plans since then. The plan consists of five essential strategies that should be operationalized.

One of the key strategies outlined in the AVSSR Strategic and Action Plans is the integration of AVSSR into global policy levels. This means that ASEAN shares its intention in actively engaging with international organizations such as WHO, UNICEF, World Bank, ADB, and IVI to collaborate on vaccine research, development, and manufacturing. By working closely with these global partners, ASEAN aims to enhance its capabilities in vaccine R&D and ultimately achieve self-reliance in vaccine development until production.

Another important strategy is the establishment of a vaccine strategic procurement and regional stockpiling mechanism. This ensures that ASEAN has access to vaccines in both normal and emergency situations. By stockpiling vaccines at a regional level, ASEAN wishes to ensure equitable/fair distribution and a timely response when pandemics emerge.

And to support these strategies, ASEAN is also creating a platform for information-sharing and knowledge exchange among its Member States and global stakeholders. This platform facilitates collaboration on research and development, production, technology transfer, regulations, distribution, and crisis management within the region.

However, achieving such vaccine security is not only about infrastructure and technology, but also requires a skilled workforce. That is why ASEAN focuses on implementing a vaccine workforce and stakeholder training program. By investing in human resource development, ASEAN ensures that it has a competent and knowledgeable workforce to support vaccine production and distribution.

Monitoring and evaluation are also crucial aspects of the AVSSR initiative. ASEAN recognizes the importance of oversight and accountability in the implementation of the Strategic and Action Plans. As such, it is working towards establishing an appropriate monitoring and evaluation platform called the Regional Steering Committee on AVSSR. This body will ensure that the AVSSR goals are met and progress is tracked effectively.

Ultimately, the AVSSR initiative aims to build vaccine security, develop self-reliance, and create sustainability. ASEAN envisions a future where it has a continuous supply of vaccines, even in times of emergencies, without compromising on equity, safety, and accessibility. By reducing the impact of pandemics and developing a solid infrastructure, ASEAN seeks to ensure the long-term availability and affordability of vaccines for its community.

In 2023, based on lessons learned from COVID-19 the ASEAN Vaccine Capacity Survey (AVCS) has been initiated. AVCS is a comprehensive assessment aiming at evaluating and enhancing vaccine capabilities within ASEAN member countries. This initiative aligns itself with the AVSSR Strategic and Action Plan, emphasizing on self-reliance and regional collaboration in vaccine-related endeavors. Building upon the initial ASEAN Vaccine Baseline Survey (AVBS) conducted from 2017 to 2018, which provided valuable insights and influenced national strategies. The AVCS delves deeper into vaccine production, distribution, research, regulations, and crisis management.

In conclusion, ASEAN’s commitment to vaccine security and self-reliance marks a significant step towards building a stronger vaccine ecosystem in the region. By reducing dependence on external sources, investing in research and development, improving regional collaboration, and strengthening production capabilities. Moreover, ASEAN is working towards a future where its Member States can respond swiftly to health emergencies and protect the well-being of their populations. As ASEAN continues its efforts, the region is poised to become a model for vaccine security and self-reliance, benefiting not only its Member States but also the global community.

by Nattaya Anurutphan