The ongoing negotiations for the WHO Pandemic Agreement represent a critical juncture in global health governance, aiming to address the systemic failures exposed by the COVID-19 crisis. Here, we analyses its key features, concerns, and proposed solutions shaping this historic treaty.
Strengthening Health Systems and Governance
Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance and Health System Strengthening
In addition to pandemic preparedness, the Agreement mandates countries to enhance efforts in managing antimicrobial resistance, fortifying health systems, and advancing universal health coverage. Parallel discussions at the WHO focus on revising the International Health Regulations to enhance reporting mechanisms for health emergencies.
Promoting Equitable Access to Medical Products
Equitable access to medical products emerges as a central theme across various provisions of the Agreement. From principles to procurement, emphasis is placed on ensuring fair access to essential healthcare resources.
Establishing Oversight Mechanisms
The current negotiating texts propose the establishment of a Conference of Parties (COP) to monitor the implementation of the Pandemic Agreement. This suggests a move towards a traditional international treaty structure, potentially under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution.
Developing Countries’ Perspectives and Concerns
Developing countries advocate for clarity on obligations and responsibilities within the Agreement, emphasising the need for equitable implementation. Disagreements between developed and developing nations highlight challenges in achieving consensus on critical issues.
Addressing Contentious Issues
A major point of contention revolves around establishing a global system for pathogen sharing and benefit-sharing. The proposed WHO Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing System aims to balance information exchange with equitable access to medical products.
Developing Countries’ Support and Developed Countries’ Criticism
In the ongoing negotiations, developing countries have shown considerable support for the revised text, a departure from past trends. However, developed nations, including Australia, Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States, have voiced criticism, citing concerns over financing and intellectual property rights. Some even labelled the text as a ‘step backwards’, highlighting significant disagreements.
Clarity on Obligations and Equity
India, representing the South-East Asia region, underscores the importance of clarity regarding obligations and responsibilities, particularly between developed and developing nations. This emphasis aims to ensure effective operationalization of equity within the Agreement, addressing persistent disparities in global health governance.
Enforcement and Governance Challenges
The Agreement’s effectiveness hinges on robust enforcement mechanisms and governance structures. Without adequate accountability measures, coordination efforts for pandemic response remain hindered, risking the treaty’s efficacy.
Proposed Solutions and Uncertainties
Proposals for decision-making bodies and structures mirror existing frameworks such as the UNFCCC, aiming to ensure equitable representation and decision-making. However, uncertainties persist, particularly regarding intellectual property rights and enforcement mechanisms.
Source: The countdown to a pandemic treaty, (The Hindu, March 29)