Biotech industry responds to Trump travel ban
A snap poll conducted by Endpoints News has gauged the biotech industry’s reception to the travel ban imposed by president Donald Trump.
The news organisation asked whether or not the industry supported the travel ban and whether or not the ban would have an impact on the biotech industry. Over 1,000 people responded with the majority being against the ban.
More so, many responses highlight an immediate impact that the executive order will have on the industry.
87% were opposed to the ban with only 130 being in favour of it. Three out of four respondents felt that the ban will have a real impact on the industry, that it will threaten diversified staffs, attendance at US conferences and it will negatively affect recruiting efforts.
Endpoints News also received statements from industry executives, who displayed their obvious disdain for the ban.
CEO at biopharma company Alnylam John Maraganore said: “At Alnylam we live our values and celebrate many benefits from a diverse workforce. Accordingly, we reject all forms of discrimination and limitations that prevent us from benefiting and growing as a diverse and inclusive workplace. We have a number of international employees working legally at our U.S. locations, and will continue to support them in every way we can.”
Steve Holtzman, CEO at hearing company Decibel Therapeutics said: “Trump’s ban on immigration and the notion of a religious test are deeply repugnant to the fundamental tenets and values of not only the United States but also the biotechnology industry. We cherish all–regardless of nationality, race, religious belief, sexual orientation or gender identification–who wish to join our industry’s battle to combat human disease and address unmet human needs.”
Sunil Joshi president & CEO of molecular therapeutics company Gradalis said: “Diversity is the heart of biotech. Walk into any pharma or biotech and you will find people of all ethnicities, religion, nations working together to solve health care problems. Today more than ever, if we are to maintain our competitiveness, we need the smartest people around the Globe to choose to come to United States over other countries. A ban on immigration, ban on refugees, even if temporary, sends the wrong signal.”
However, whilst the biotech industry has demonstrated its opposition to the ban, the biopharma industry is remaining quiet.
Endpoints News notes that few CEOs from the biopharmaceutical industry have made any kind of comments, for or against the ban.
The news organisation received a comment from a spokesperson from biopharma company Merck saying: “We are committed to our employees of all nationalities and religions. We are actively reaching out to employees who may be affected by the Executive Order to provide legal advice and other assistance.”
One notable disapproval of the ban came from chairman & CEO of multinational pharmaceutical firm Allergan, Brent Saunders, who tweeted: