WHO to Resume Talks on Historic Pandemic Agreement
By: Christian Conteh
WHO Member States have agreed to resume negotiations aimed at finalizing the world’s first pandemic agreement following intensive discussions held from April 29 to May 10. The decision marks a crucial step towards enhancing global preparedness and response to future pandemics.
The ninth meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB9), which commenced on March 18, concluded today after two weeks of deliberations led by government negotiators. Discussions covered various aspects of the draft agreement, including financing for pandemic preparedness, equitable access to medical countermeasures, and strengthening health workforce capabilities.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed appreciation for Member States’ commitment to reaching a consensus on the historic agreement. “Our Member States recognize the vital importance of this pandemic agreement in safeguarding future generations from the hardships endured during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dr. Tedros stated. He commended their dedication to finalizing the agreement in time for the upcoming World Health Assembly.
The resumption of negotiations next month ahead of the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly, scheduled to begin on May 27, 2024, is deemed a pivotal milestone. Dr. Precious Matsoso, Co-Chair of the INB Bureau, emphasized the agreement’s overarching goals of preparedness, prevention, and equity. “We aim to establish a framework that fosters consensus, solidarity, and fairness in pandemic prevention and response,” Dr. Matsoso remarked.
Mr. Roland Driece, Fellow Co-Chair of the INB Bureau, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the urgency of reaching a consensus to ensure global health security. “Governments have underscored the imperative to finalize an agreement that will make the world healthier, fairer, and safer from pandemics,” Mr. Driece affirmed.
The process of drafting and negotiate the pandemic agreement was initiated in December 2021 during a Special Session of the World Health Assembly. The INB was established to lead the efforts, with participation from various United Nations bodies, non-state actors, stakeholders, and the public.
As negotiations progress, the global community remains focused on achieving a comprehensive and inclusive agreement that addresses the multifaceted challenges of pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response.
