WHO Chief Optimistic About Missing Piece of Pandemic Treaty
The WHO's Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed optimism about the upcoming resolution of a critical component of the Pandemic Agreement, a treaty that emerged from the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This agreement, negotiated over three years, aims to prevent the fragmented and chaotic responses that characterized the initial stages of the pandemic.
The treaty's core feature, the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) system, was temporarily set aside to finalize the broader agreement. This system is designed to ensure equitable access to pathogens with pandemic potential and the benefits derived from them, including vaccines, tests, and treatments.
Dr. Ghebreyesus emphasized the urgency and importance of this system, stating, "This is both a generational opportunity and a generational responsibility. As we approach the end of this year, we are well-positioned to reach a consensus, finalize the draft, and prepare for adoption at next year's World Health Assembly."
The fourth round of negotiations, scheduled for January 20-22, will focus on finalizing the PABS system. Once this system is in place, the entire treaty can be ratified by member countries, with 60 ratifications required for its entry into force.
Matthew Harpur, co-chair of the talks, expressed optimism about the progress made, saying, "As we cross the halfway mark in negotiations on the PABS system, I am encouraged by the progress we've made towards enabling a faster and more equitable global response to future pandemics."
The co-chair, Ambassador Tovar da Silva Nunes of Brazil, added, "We are confident we can build a strong and balanced PABS system that will benefit all people."
This development marks a significant step forward in global health governance, with the potential to improve preparedness and response to future pandemics.
