What is the N-VA’s view on mandatory vaccination, the CST and the pandemic law?

In recent weeks, we have again received many questions about the party’s positions on combating the coronavirus. Especially regarding mandatory vaccination, the Covid Safe Ticket (CST) and the pandemic law. Each one of these subjects is a complex debate in which different values and considerations have to be weighed up against each other and about which many of you undoubtedly have firm opinions. I would therefore like to clarify our positions through this medium.

1) The N-VA has always indicated that it wants to enter into a debate about mandatory vaccination with an open mind, whereby all scientific arguments and uncertainties must be discussed transparently. Many valid questions need to be clarified, such as: which vaccine(s) will become mandatory? How many doses over what period of time? How must that obligation then be enforced? Etc. In this country today, only one vaccine is mandatory: the polio vaccine. The bar has thus historically been set very high before a vaccine obligation is laid down in law. It is clear that such a debate must be conducted very thoroughly and not on the basis of empty slogans.

In recent days, we have seen increasing optimism among experts about the course of the pandemic. The throughput numbers of patients with Omicron infections to hospitals, especially intensive care, is much more limited than was feared. The hope is now even being openly expressed that we are moving from a pandemic situation to an endemic situation. If this hope proves justified, the approach to the coronavirus will in time resemble the approach to the flu. Namely, with a focus on vaccinating especially vulnerable people before the winter. In that context, the evidence does not seem to point towards compulsory vaccination for the time being.

That being said, we absolutely must continue to defend vaccination. First of all, to protect the individual. Science has undeniably achieved a miracle with the vaccines as regards the course of disease and mortality. This is clear from all the reliable figures. It is therefore gratifying that the willingness to be vaccinated remains particularly high in Flanders. Except for Brussels, unfortunately.

2) The N-VA has always pointed out the lack of scientific foundation of the CST as an instrument to control the circulation of the virus. Experts also agree with us on this point and even speak of a “false sense of security” resulting from of the CST.

The only potentially valid argument for the CST is that it encourages people to get vaccinated. We realise that stopping its use is therefore not straightforward in the midst of a wave of infection and a third vaccination campaign. We hope that after the Omicron wave, minds will be ready to consider disposing of the CST. After all, the benefit is particularly low in regions with a high vaccination rate. Such a far-reaching measure cannot be maintained without the necessary evidence.

Internationally, the CST seems likely to remain a reality for some time to come. We will therefore have to continue to offer it so that Flemish people can travel without any problems.

3) When the situation is no longer an acute crisis, it is logical that the activation of the pandemic law will not be extended and that parliamentary democracy can once again resume its work in a healthy way. In any case, we, the N-VA, have never been in favour of the parliament being side-lined for months on end in the fight against the pandemic.

I hope this has provided the clarity needed. Stay safe in the coming days and weeks. We always have to speak carefully in this crisis, but with some luck, we will soon return to the free and normal life that was so dear to us.