On May 20, 2025, the WHO achieved a landmark accomplishment in approving the Pandemic Agreement, with 124 member states voting in favor. The agreement seeks to coordinate global preparedness and response in an equitable manner to any future pandemics, a need brought to the fore by the COVID-19 crisis.
The pact lays down the establishment of the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) system at its very core. The system will be a mechanism through which countries will have to share with laboratories designated by WHO the genetic data of any potential pandemic pathogen. Pharmaceutical companies will have to provide 20% of any pandemic-related health product, including vaccines and diagnostics, to the WHO, 10% of which is free of cost and the rest at low cost, as compensation. This is to facilitate and promote rapid and fair access to these crucial medical tools for the developing countries.
While it had enormous global support, the United States, and Argentina being notable exceptions. U.S. withdrawal from the WHO in January 2025, under Executive Order 14155, resulted largely from concerns over national sovereignty issues with respect to the WHO, and the perceived inefficacy of the WHO . Despite this, the agreement remains a statement of intent on behalf of the participants to global health solidarity.
Despite its ambitions, the agreement faces scrutiny over its non-binding nature and lack of enforcement mechanisms. Critics argue that without legal obligations, compliance may be inconsistent, potentially undermining the treaty’s objectives. Additionally, debates persist regarding intellectual property rights and the equitable distribution of benefits derived from shared pathogen data.
The WHO Pandemic Agreement represents a pivotal step toward a more coordinated and equitable global health response. Its success will depend on the commitment of member states to uphold its principles and address its shortcomings. As the world anticipates future health challenges, this agreement lays the groundwork for a more resilient and inclusive international health framework.
Image Credit: WHO
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