Clinton versus Bush

Bill Clinton, the former US president, is undermining the AIDS policy of his successor George W. Bush – to the benefit of AIDS sufferers in many developing countries. In early April, the Clinton Foundation reached an agreement with manufacturers of copycat (generic) drugs from India and South Africa on rebates for all governments and aid organisations supported by the Global AIDS Fund, the World Bank or United Nations Children’s Fund. The Bush government, however, rejects cooperation with generic drug manufacturers. Countries that apply for US aid are only allowed to purchase products from the large international pharmaceutical companies, which are up to three times more expensive. Washington justifies this with doubts concerning the quality of the AIDS generics. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has tested and recommended the cheap medication. (ell)