Global Health Crisis Prevention: Progress and Challenges at the World Health Assembly

The World Health Assembly (WHA) recognized the progress made by Member States in developing a pandemic agreement and strengthening the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005). This was acknowledged during the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly in Geneva where governments are discussing ways to advance both efforts. The goal of these initiatives is to enhance the world’s ability to prevent and respond to future pandemics effectively.

During the Assembly, Member States agreed to continue working towards finalizing the package of amendments to the IHR (2005) and determining the timing, format, and process for concluding the pandemic agreement. Discussions are set to continue until June 1st with the aim of reaching consensus on these important matters.

One of the key agenda items discussed during the Assembly was the draft pandemic agreement, which received recognition for the extensive work done by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) and Bureau steering the process. The development of this world’s first pandemic accord aims to prevent a recurrence of global health, economic, and social impacts seen during COVID-19 pandemic.

Member States emphasized that any future pandemic agreement must uphold principles of equity, sovereignty, and focus on prevention, preparedness and response in order to safeguard future generations from threats such as pandemics. Additionally, discussions were held on negotiating amendments to IHR (2005) based on lessons learned from COVID-19 pandemic response. It was stressed that updated regulations are crucial for ensuring readiness for future global health crises.

In conclusion, WHA recognized progress made by member states in developing a pandemic agreement and strengthening IHR (2005), but there is still much work to be done in order to reach an agreement on these important matters. Equity, sovereignty and prevention must be at forefront when creating any future pandemic agreement while updating regulations is crucial for ensuring readiness for any global health crisis that may arise.