The Hague • 4 December 2025
A new FIP toolkit designed to support countries in advancing pharmacists’ roles in vaccination and improving access to life-course immunisation has been launched today by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP).
Vaccination remains one of the world’s most effective public health interventions, preventing between 3.5 and 5 million deaths every year. Yet, despite decades of progress, global immunisation coverage has stalled, and recent disruptions have highlighted the need for resilient, accessible vaccination systems.
With pharmacies recognised for their accessibility, extended hours, and trusted presence in communities, integrating pharmacists into national immunisation strategies is a critical opportunity to expand reach and close existing gaps.
“Drawing on data from 117 countries collected through FIP’s global vaccination surveillance, this toolkit equips countries with no legal framework for pharmacist-administered vaccination, those exploring pilot models, and those seeking to broaden or optimise their existing programmes,” said FIP Chief Executive Officer Dr Catherine Duggan.
Although 56 countries now have legislation enabling pharmacy-based vaccination (PBV), up from 34 in 2020, significant regional and regulatory disparities persist. The toolkit includes guidance on:
• Establishing or updating regulatory frameworks for pharmacist vaccination and prescribing;
• Building a skilled pharmaceutical workforce trained in immunisation;
• Ensuring access, equity, and integration within national immunisation strategies;
• Increasing vaccine uptake and strengthening public confidence; and
• Developing sustainable remuneration and service models.
It also outlines common barriers, including regulatory gaps, professional resistance, infrastructure and training needs, and public vaccine hesitancy, and provides strategies for overcoming them through evidence-based advocacy and stakeholder engagement.
Aligned with the World Health Organization (WHO) Immunisation Agenda 2030 and FIP’s Development Goals, the toolkit reflects FIP’s commitment to ensuring no one is left behind in global immunisation efforts and to accelerating vaccine equity, access, and resilience through pharmacist-led services.
A new FIP vaccination framework was also launched this week.
Notes for editors
About FIP The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global federation of national associations of pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists and pharmacy educators, and is in official relations with the World Health Organization. Through its 160 member organisations, it represents over 5.5 million practitioners and scientists around the world. www.fip.org
PRESS CONTACT
Ms Laila Ghorab
Communications Manager
International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP)
Email laila@fip.org