The World Health Organization (WHO) chief, on Monday urged nations to finalize a landmark global agreement on managing future pandemics, following their failure to meet a crucial deadline.
The call to action comes in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which claimed millions of lives, disrupted global economies, and overwhelmed healthcare systems worldwide.
Over the past two years, countries have been engaged in negotiations to establish binding commitments focused on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. These efforts aim to ensure a more coordinated and effective global approach to future health crises.
Despite the urgency, negotiators were unable to reach a consensus before the commencement of this week’s World Health Assembly, the annual meeting of the WHO’s 194 member states. This assembly had been set as the target for concluding the talks, making the missed deadline a significant setback.
In his opening remarks at the assembly, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed optimism about reaching an agreement. He emphasized the critical importance of solidifying a comprehensive plan to better equip the world for any future pandemics, reflecting on the devastating impacts of COVID-19.
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Tedros underscored that the experiences and lessons learned from COVID-19 should drive the urgency to forge this global pact.
He highlighted the necessity for robust international cooperation and commitment to safeguard global health security, reinforcing the message that no nation can effectively tackle pandemics in isolation.
“Of course, we all wish that we had been able to reach a consensus on the agreement in time for this health assembly and crossed the finish line. But I remain confident that you still will, because where there is a will, there is a way. I know that there remains among you a common will to get this done, so, there must always be a way. Meaning the solution is in your hands”, he said.
The proposed agreement is expected to include measures for rapid information sharing, equitable distribution of vaccines and medical supplies, and coordinated responses to emerging health threats.
As the World Health Assembly progresses, the international community remains hopeful that member states will rally to finalize the agreement, marking a significant step towards a more resilient and prepared global health system.