WHO member states extend pandemic agreement negotiations for another year [Video]

The World Health Organization (WHO) member states have agreed to extend the negotiations over the pandemic agreement for another year. This decision is a significant step towards global health security, allowing for the necessary time to finalize a landmark treaty. The treaty is aimed at combating future pandemics and enhancing preparedness on a global scale.

The Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB), established in December 2021, is tasked with drafting the agreement and guiding the negotiation process. The INB’s mandate has been extended to deliver the agreement by the next World Health Assembly in 2025, or earlier if possible. A special session of the health assembly in 2024 may also be convened for this purpose.

There was a clear consensus among all member states on the need for a further instrument to help the world better fight a full-blown pandemic, stated INB co-chair Precious Matsoso. This consensus underscores the global recognition of …