WHO chief optimistic about finalizing pandemic treaty

The head of the World Health Organization (WHO) expressed optimism on Friday that nations are well-positioned to complete the critical element of the pandemic treaty responsible for vaccine distribution.

Earlier this year, WHO member states reached a historic Pandemic Agreement aimed at improving global responses to future health emergencies, following over three years of negotiations initiated by the impact of Covid-19. The agreement seeks to prevent fragmented responses and international confusion seen during the Covid-19 crisis by enhancing coordination, surveillance, and vaccine access for any future pandemics.

However, the core part of the treaty, the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) framework, was temporarily set aside to finalize the broader deal. Nations were given an additional year to iron out the operational details of this mechanism. The PABS system is designed to manage access to pathogens with pandemic potential and ensure equitable sharing of benefits derived from them, including vaccines, tests, and treatments. Countries aim to complete the PABS framework by the next World Health Assembly in mid-May, which serves as WHO's main decision-making forum.

"This is both a generational opportunity and a generational responsibility," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus after a week of discussions. "As we approach the end of this year, we are in a strong position to reach agreement, finalize the draft, and prepare it for adoption at next year's assembly. Together, we are moving toward a world that is better equipped to handle future pandemics."

Countries will reconvene for the fourth round of PABS negotiations from January 20-22. Once finalized, the full treaty can be ratified by member states, requiring 60 ratifications for it to come into effect.

"Reaching the halfway point in PABS discussions, I am encouraged by the progress towards enabling faster and fairer global responses to future pandemics," said Matthew Harpur, co-chair of the negotiations. Ambassador Tovar da Silva Nunes of Brazil, also a co-chair, added, "We are confident that a strong and equitable PABS framework will serve the interests of all people."

Author: Ethan Caldwell