Pharma-Brief Special 1/2022: Public Pharma

A public pharmaceutical industry for a sustainable drug supply

High prices, recurring supply shortages and research prioritizing highly lucrative areas characterize today’s pharmaceutical system. To ensure sustainable global access to vital medicines, vaccines, and tests, a fundamental change of course is needed. Around the concept of “public pharma”, a global movement for a public pharmaceutical industry has therefore emerged. At its core, it aims to align research, production, and access to medicines with the actual public interest.

This publication provides an overview of the topic and explores individual aspects in greater depth using illustrative case studies. Furthermore, it analyzes why the current pharmaceutical system needs fundamental reforms and presents approaches that already contribute to a more sustainable, common good-oriented provision. The time for change is pressing: The human right to health is in acute danger worldwide.

Download: Pharma-Brief Special 1/2026: Public Pharma [PDF/1.25 kB]