The Member States of the WHO have completed the draft of the World Pandemic Treaty aimed at enhancing global readiness for pandemics

What is it?

A legally binding international agreement designed to enhance the global response to future pandemics.

Developed by: Negotiated by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB), established under the World Health Organization (WHO) in December 2021.

Objective: To enhance pandemic prevention, preparedness, and equitable response through a One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health.

Key Features:

• Establishes systems for pathogen access and benefit-sharing.
• Strengthens global supply chains and logistics for health emergencies.
• Encourages the transfer of technology and knowledge related to vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics.
• Mobilizes a skilled global health workforce and supports balanced research and development capacities across regions.
• Respects national sovereignty, ensuring that the WHO cannot impose lockdowns, travel restrictions, or vaccination mandates.

About the World Health Organization (WHO):

Established in: 1948, as a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to international public health.

Headquarters: Located in Geneva, Switzerland.

Core Objectives:

- Promote universal health coverage.

- Address disease outbreaks, ensure health security, and enhance public well-being.

- Assist countries in developing policies, preparing for emergencies, and strengthening health systems.

Governance Structure:

World Health Assembly (WHA): The highest decision-making authority, convening annually.

Secretariat: Implements the decisions of the WHA under the leadership of the Director-General.

Regional Offices: Six regional offices facilitate implementation (e.g., South-East Asia, Africa).

Funding Mechanism:

• Assessed contributions: Mandatory dues from member states.
• Voluntary contributions: Additional financial support from countries, UN agencies, the private sector, and philanthropic organizations.