Geneva: The World Health Assembly on Monday officially adopted the Pandemic Agreement, an international accord aimed at enhancing global cooperation in pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. This milestone follows more than three years of intensive negotiations among Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO).
According to Kuwait News Agency, Member States voted on the agreement during the 78th session of the World Health Assembly, which is currently taking place in Geneva and will continue until May 27th. The agreement emphasizes the sovereign right of countries to determine their public health policies while committing to enhanced international collaboration in areas such as pandemic prevention, strengthening research and development capacities, technology transfer, equitable distribution of health products, and the establishment of a global supply chain and logistics network.
The newly adopted agreement includes provisions for a benefit-sharing mechanism related to access to pathogens and embraces the One Health approach, linking human, animal, and environmental health. Additionally, it provides technical and financial support for countries with limited resources. This binding global framework aims to reinforce international solidarity and ensure better preparedness for future pandemics while respecting the specificities of national health policies of WHO Member States.
Notably, the United States was absent from this session following the announcement by President Donald Trump of the country's withdrawal from the Organization.