The ethical dilemma of the vaccine rollout
Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent people from contracting and spreading coronavirus. Throughout the course of the pandemic, there has been controversy surrounding the implementation of “mandatory vaccination” policies, that would limit an individuals choice in non-trivial ways, such as limiting who can work in particular industries, or travel.
With the number of people infected with covid-19 increasing in Germany, Helge Braun, Chief of staff for Chancellor Angela Merkel, has warned that restrictions for unvaccinated people may be enforced if the numbers do not decrease, stating that “vaccinated people will definitely have more freedoms than unvaccinated people.”
This warning comes following a decline in the number of German’s receiving the vaccine, sparking discussions surrounding compulsory vaccinations among German politicians. While the enforcement of vaccinations can be ethically justified as a way to protect public health, it may also impose on an individual’s right to liberty and autonomy.