The information presented on this site is current as of the date initially posted; and, because matters related to COVID-19, the vaccine, and compliance measures are changing so quickly, it may not be current as of the date you read it. While the information gathered here is from Asinta global partners who are subject matter experts in their respective fields, this information is not meant to be a substitute for individual legal or medical advice, or as a substitute for advice in your specific situation.
COVID-19 Vaccine Decision Framework for Global Employers
This page is no longer being actively updated, but all of the resources offered on it remain relevant.
Multinational employers should answer six critical questions before designing plans to support employees in getting the COVID-19 vaccine in any given country.
Employment Law
Can employers mandate vaccines in the country or not?
Ensure you understand both federal and provincial government laws regarding the COVID-19 vaccine before implementing corporate policies to mandate it. Once the vaccine becomes more readily available to the general population, employers’ vaccination policies will need to consider how to accommodate medical conditions and/disabilities, different belief systems, human rights, personal injury, data privacy, and pay and leave considerations.
Culture
What is the cultural attitude towards taking the vaccine?
Each country has a different attitude towards getting vaccines in general and, in particular, the COVID-19 vaccine. Some cultures are accepting and willing to get the jab, while others are relatively resistant. Still, others are hesitant simply because the vaccine has not been available to the public for long. Be sure to understand these general perspectives and why they exist before writing/enforcing a COVID-19 vaccination policy, so communication and implementation are effective.
There are predictions that some countries will vaccinate most of their population by the end of 2021, while others indicate it will be by the end of 2022. Priority groups tend to be those in long-term care facilities, as well as healthcare and essential workers. The situation is fluid, and it is vital to monitor so you know where your employee population fits into the prioritization.
Distribution
Which government or healthcare agencies control the distribution of the vaccine?
This is not like getting an annual flu shot . The urgency of the pandemic is generally requiring both federal and provincial governments to direct the distribution of the vaccine to be given to the public in an orderly fashion.
An employee’s general practitioner office is likely going to be the place where they can receive their vaccine injection. However, some countries may set up large vaccination facilities to service the broader population more quickly.
The federal governments of many countries are covering the cost of the vaccine. However, employer-sponsored health insurance policies in some countries do not cover vaccinations. Make sure to understand this important detail and consider your options upon renewal.
Country Specific COVID-19 Information
Click on a country name to get that country’s latest employer-related news on the COVID-19 vaccine, what employers need to consider for employees in that country concerning the vaccine, as well as other coronavirus news that may impact a multinational employer’s efforts to support their global workforce.
The measures to tackle COVID-19 in the Middle East have succeeded in flattening the curve and limiting the spread of the virus. The number of... Read More
Kuwait COVID-19 Employer Resources
The measures to tackle COVID-19 in the Middle East have succeeded in flattening the curve and limiting the spread of the virus. The number of... Read More
Qatar COVID-19 Employer Resources
The measures to tackle COVID-19 in the Middle East have succeeded in flattening the curve and limiting the spread of the virus. The number of... Read More
Thailand COVID-19 Employer Resources
Both Sinovac and Astra Zeneca have now arrived in Thailand, although in relatively small numbers. The government has also outlined a plan as to the... Read More
Australia COVID-19 Employer Resources
With all Australian states having multiple weeks without COVID cases, restrictions have been getting less and less with sporting and cultural events going ahead with... Read More
Brazil COVID-19 Employer Resources
According to a March 12, 2021 report from Time, “COVID-19 has never been brought fully under control in Brazil, but the transmission is now at... Read More
France COVID-19 Employer Resources
According to a March 13, 2021 report from France 24, “Despite rising COVID-19 cases, the administration of President Emmanuel Macron has not to date declared... Read More
Italy COVID-19 Employer Resources
According to a March 13, 2021 CNN report, “Italy is facing another lockdown, as the government attempts to contain a recent surge of coronavirus cases,... Read More
Germany COVID-19 Employer Resources
When Germany began its 5 step process out of the lockdown on March 8, it was already clear that the third wave was starting. Less... Read More
