In the wake of a sudden pause in the final trials of the Astra-Oxford vaccine AZD1222 after one of the recipients in the UK showed adverse symptoms followed by similar steps by Serum Institute of India what implications does this have on global vaccine trials and, on the economy specifically the Indian scenario? While some experts claim that the pause is a routine one and is the second time that it has been halted. In July, the trial was paused for possible safety concerns, but the issue was resolved quickly, and the trial resumed shortly thereafter. While it illustrates the researchers’ commitment towards volunteer safety and high standards of conduct their studies, it is unclear how long it is going to take. WHO terms this as ‘a wake-up call’ to recognize that such ups and downs happen during vaccine trials. Though the direct impact of the Astra/Oxford vaccine halt could be on the timeline for producing the vaccine, the disruption could be a blessing in disguise.
Ricardo has 35 years´ experience in private sector development, regulatory reform, regional and local economic development in the European Union, Western Balkans, Easter Partnership Countries, Middle East, Africa, etc. He is tasked with developing our strategic operations in continental Europe and Ukraine.
Ricardo is a seasoned international development professional with over 30 years of experience designing and delivering Private Sector Development and economic growth initiatives across more than 50 countries spanning Central, Eastern and Southeast Europe, the CIS, Africa, MEDA, and Asia. He holds both a bachelor’s degree and PhD from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and is a Certified Management Consultant (CMC).
Ricardo brings a unique combination of strategic insight and practical implementation expertise. He has led high-impact assignments for key development institutions, including the European Commission, OECD, GIZ, FCDO/DFID, UNDP, UNCTAD, EBRD, ILO, ADB, World Bank, USAID, and Danida.
With a deep and practical understanding of institutional architecture, policy environment, and post-conflict recovery dynamics, and a career spanning over 30 years across transition economies, Ricardo brings not only technical depth but also a trusted reputation among donors, policymakers and peers.He is leading Triple Line’s strategic expansion into continental Europe, including Ukraine, while strengthening our credibility across the broader region and beyond. Proven Expertise Across Our Core Pillars. Ricardo’s work focuses on the areas central to Triple Line’s evolving service offering: Governance & Institutional Reform: advising public institutions on regulatory impact, policy reform, and donor coordination, Private Sector Development: strategy development for SME ecosystems, innovation, and competitiveness, Infrastructure Enabling Conditions: support for investment climate improvement and regional/local economic development and Cross-cutting themes, including green transition, women’s economic empowerment, and inclusive growth
