WHO Member States in Committee A of the World Health Assembly have approved a resolution endorsing a historic global Pandemic Agreement aimed at making the world safer from future pandemics. The Agreement will be considered for final adoption during the Assembly’s plenary session on Tuesday, 20 May 2025.

This landmark accord, developed over three years since the COVID-19 pandemic began, seeks to strengthen international cooperation to prevent, prepare for, and respond equitably to future pandemics. It was adopted under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution and involves governments, WHO, civil society, and the private sector.

Namibian Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Esperance Luvindao, Chair of Committee A, emphasised the shared global commitment.

“The WHO Pandemic Agreement is a demonstration of the shared desire by all people to be better prepared to prevent and respond to the next pandemic, with a commitment to respect human dignity, equity, solidarity, and sovereignty. The costs inflicted by COVID-19 were great, and as sovereign states, we have resolved to join hands as one world to protect our children, elders, frontline health workers, and all others from the next pandemic. It is our duty and responsibility to humanity.”

Key elements include establishing a Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS) system, creating a Coordinating Financial Mechanism, and enhancing the Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network to ensure rapid, equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics during health emergencies.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised Member States for their commitment to global solidarity and improved pandemic preparedness. The Agreement complements recent amendments to the International Health Regulations.

Following final adoption, the Agreement will open for signature and ratification, requiring 60 ratifications to enter into force. A High-Level segment with statements from Heads of State will follow the plenary session.

This historic step marks a unified global effort to protect humanity from future pandemic threats.