In a move aimed at enhancing global preparedness for future pandemics, member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) have unanimously agreed to extend talks over a landmark pandemic agreement for another year. This decision allows for more time to finalize the treaty, which is envisioned to bolster the world’s response to health crises.
The Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB), established in December 2021 to draft the agreement and steer the negotiation process, will continue its mandate. The goal is to deliver the agreement by the next World Health Assembly in 2025, although efforts will be made to expedite the process, potentially through a special session of the health assembly in 2024.
According to INB co-chair Precious Matsoso, there was a clear consensus among all member states regarding the necessity of a comprehensive instrument to combat future pandemics effectively. This extension reflects the commitment of nations to collaboratively address global health challenges.
In addition to extending talks on the pandemic agreement, this year’s World Health Assembly approved a series of amendments to the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR). These amendments include the introduction of a definition for a pandemic emergency, aimed at triggering more efficient international collaboration in response to potential pandemics.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that these amendments will strengthen countries’ abilities to detect and respond to future outbreaks and pandemics. They will achieve this by enhancing national capacities and fostering coordination between member states in areas such as disease surveillance, information sharing, and response strategies.
Tedros further highlighted that the reinforcement of the IHR marks significant progress toward completing the pandemic agreement. Once finalized, this agreement is expected to play a crucial role in preventing a recurrence of the widespread health, societal, and economic devastation witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The WHO’s efforts to fortify global health governance underscore the urgency of collective action in confronting emerging health threats and safeguarding global well-being.