WHO’s Pandemic Agreement

Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced agreement aimed at enhancing global preparedness for future pandemics. This agreement emerged after extensive negotiations spanning over three years, reflecting a collective commitment to improve international health security. The agreement will be presented at the upcoming World Health Assembly for final approval. This is only the second international agreement of this kind by WHO in 75 years. The first was the tobacco control treaty in 2003.

Background of the Agreement

The WHO began drafting this agreement in 2021, following the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Member states recognised the need for a coordinated response to health crises. The negotiations involved 13 formal rounds and addressed crucial issues such as vaccine access and technology sharing.

Purpose of the Treaty

• To avoid confusion and competition for resources seen during the Covid-19 pandemic.

• To improve global coordination and preparedness.

Key Features

Global Cooperation on Medicines:

• WHO will now have a global overview of supply chains for PPE like masks and gowns.
• Manufacturers will:
  • Give 10% of production to WHO.
  • Sell another 10% at affordable prices.

 Technology Sharing:

• Countries agreed to share health technology with poorer nations, if mutually agreed.
• This aims to support local production of medicines and vaccines.

Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing System (PABS):

• A system to quickly share data between countries and companies.
• Helps start drug development early in future pandemics.

Challenges Faced During Negotiations

Negotiators encountered challenges, particularly regarding technology transfer for pandemic-related health products. Disagreements arose over whether such transfers should be mandatory or voluntary. Countries with large pharmaceutical industries worry that technology-sharing may hurt innovation. Ultimately, a compromise was reached, stipulating that transfers must be mutually agreed upon.

Implications for Future Health Crises

The agreement’s successful negotiation is viewed as a victory for multilateralism. It aims to prevent the mistakes made during the COVID-19 pandemic. Countries now face the challenge of implementing the agreement effectively to ensure preparedness for future threats.

Next Steps for Implementation

Looking forward, the focus will shift to the practical implementation of the agreement. The pharmaceutical industry has brought into light the necessity of intellectual property protections to encourage investment in pandemic preparedness. The agreement is seen as a starting point for ongoing negotiations to solidify global health frameworks.

US Status

• The US did not take part in the final talks due to a withdrawal decision by ex-President Trump.

• The US will not be bound by the treaty after it officially exits WHO in 2026.

Month: Current Affairs - April, 2025

Category: International / World Current Affairs