Geneva – Negotiations on a landmark global agreement for handling future pandemics concluded Friday without a deal, though countries remain committed to reaching an accord. Efforts to create binding commitments on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response have been ongoing for two years, spurred by the devastation of COVID-19.
The final push falls short
Despite increased momentum in recent weeks, the talks failed to meet the final deadline ahead of next week’s World Health Assembly, the annual gathering of the World Health Organization‘s 194 member states. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that this is not a failure but a chance to re-energize efforts. “The world still needs a pandemic treaty and needs to be prepared,” he said.
Talks co-chairs Roland Driece and Precious Matsoso highlighted the countries’ desire to finalize an agreement. “It’s not the end,” Matsoso stated, explaining that the same ministers advocating for a pandemic agreement will decide the next steps. Driece noted the progress made, with 17 out of 32 pages of the draft agreed upon, despite significant challenges.
Key disputes
The main sticking points included access to pathogens, pandemic-fighting products like vaccines, sustainable financing, pathogen surveillance, supply chains, and equitable distribution of tests and treatments. An Asian diplomat indicated that more time is needed for convergence between the global north and south.
Countries reaffirmed their commitment as the talks concluded. US negotiator Pamela Hamamoto expressed satisfaction with the draft text. Ethiopia, Britain, the European Union, Bangladesh, and Indonesia all emphasized their dedication to continuing the process.
Parallel IHR talks
Alongside the pandemic agreement talks, revisions to the International Health Regulations (IHR), first adopted in 1969 and last updated in 2005, were discussed. The IHR framework defines countries’ rights and obligations in managing public health events that could cross borders. The outcome of these discussions will be presented at the World Health Assembly.