WHO Pandemic Contract Filed for Adoption
The World Health Organization (WHO) has filed a pandemic contract aimed at addressing the mistakes made during the Covid-19 crisis, with plans for adoption discussed at the World Health Council on Tuesday. The process took over three years to negotiate among member states.
The main mechanism of this contract is set to be negotiated by May 2026, after which countries can formally ratify it.
There are 35 articles that outline the key components of the contract.
Objective
This WHO Pandemic Agreement aims to “enhance pandemic prevention, preparation, and response.” It emerges from the evident inequalities and flaws observed during Covid-19, guided by principles such as fairness, solidarity, and transparency.
Public health decisions in the face of a pandemic should rely on “the best science and evidence available.” Additionally, respecting the sovereignty of states is emphasized as a crucial foundation.
Prevention and Surveillance
Countries are encouraged to take progressive steps to bolster their capacity for both preventing and monitoring pandemics. Resources are being sought to develop national pandemic prevention programs effectively.
Efforts should include early detection of infectious diseases and measures to control them, such as routine vaccinations and managing biological risks.
Sustainable Local Production
The agreement calls for steps to ensure a more equitable distribution of health products related to pandemics, like vaccines, and aims for timely access to these products across all countries.
Reducing gaps between supply and demand during emergencies is a critical aspect.
Technology Transfer
One key aspect of the negotiations was the transfer of technology and know-how for producing pandemic-related health products, particularly to developing nations. The contract suggests that such transfers should not be limited to wealthy countries, and instead should be based on “mutually agreed” terms.
It proposes using incentives related to licensing and financing to encourage this technology transfer, with a call for coordination by WHO-recognized centres.
Access to Pathogens, Sharing Benefits
A crucial element of the contract is the proposed Pathogen Access and Benefit System (PABS), which facilitates quick sharing of pathogen data with pharmaceutical companies to expedite the development of pandemic response products.
Countries are expected to rapidly share information on problematic pathogens, while also ensuring that benefits derived from this data are distributed fairly. Manufacturers will be asked to contribute 20% of their pandemic-related product output, with a minimum of 10% provided as donations.
Participation is open to all companies, regardless of their headquarters’ country affiliation with the WHO.
Negotiations for the specific details will be included in an appendix by May 2026, and once approved, the contract can be ratified by states.
Supply Chain and Logistics
To address shortcomings highlighted by Covid-19, a global supply chain and logistics network will be established to ensure fair and timely access to pandemic-related health products.
During emergencies, countries should prioritize sharing these products, promoting equitable distribution based on public health needs.
The structure and operations of this network will be managed by the WHO.
