WHO Chief Optimistic About Pandemic Treaty Despite U.S. Bilateral Agreements

On May 20, 2025, the World Health Assembly unanimously adopted the World Health Organization (WHO) Pandemic Agreement, an international treaty aimed at enhancing pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. This treaty emerged from three years of negotiations and represents a significant step towards global health cooperation. However, key elements, particularly the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) System, remain unresolved. The PABS system is intended to facilitate equitable access to pandemic-related materials and benefits, but its implementation is currently under negotiation.

The New WHO Pandemic Treaty and Global Health Governance: Incorporating Common but Differentiated Responsibilities into PABS

At a recent press briefing in Geneva, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed optimism regarding the adoption of an annex to the Pandemic Agreement that would focus on the sharing of pathogenic information. He stated that he does not view bilateral agreements, such as the recent five-year agreement between the United States and Kenya under the 'America First' global health plan, as a threat to the ongoing negotiations for the PABS annex. "Bilateral agreements are no problem to be honest. It doesn't affect (the annex) and I'm not worried," Ghebreyesus remarked.

WHO Chief ‘not worried’ about US bilateral deals affecting pandemic treaty – Channel AfricaThe Straits TimesReuters

Despite this optimism, health experts have raised concerns that such bilateral deals could undermine the WHO's authority and potentially derail the negotiations for the PABS system.

Reuters

The PABS negotiations are complicated by disparities between countries that contribute pathogen materials and those that benefit from them. Countries rich in biodiversity, such as Brazil, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Indonesia, are likely to provide valuable PABS materials, while wealthier nations, including the United States and EU member states, are positioned to capitalize on these resources. Critics argue that the current framework may perpetuate inequities, as wealthier nations disproportionately benefit from the system.

The New WHO Pandemic Treaty and Global Health Governance: Incorporating Common but Differentiated Responsibilities into PABS

To address these challenges, the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities" is proposed for inclusion in the PABS negotiations. This principle suggests that wealthier nations should bear greater responsibility for funding and sharing the benefits derived from pathogen materials.

The New WHO Pandemic Treaty and Global Health Governance: Incorporating Common but Differentiated Responsibilities into PABS

The effectiveness of the WHO Pandemic Agreement and its PABS annex hinges on the establishment of robust mechanisms for data sharing and compliance. The proposed governance structure, which includes a Conference of the Parties (COP), lacks enforcement authority, raising concerns about its ability to ensure compliance among member states. A strong PABS system could enhance the WHO's credibility and facilitate equitable access to medical innovations, thereby restoring trust in global health governance.

The New WHO Pandemic Treaty and Global Health Governance: Incorporating Common but Differentiated Responsibilities into PABS

The WHO's ongoing efforts to finalize the PABS annex are critical for ensuring equitable access to pandemic-related resources. While Dr. Ghebreyesus remains hopeful about the treaty's future, the challenges posed by bilateral agreements and the need for a fair PABS system underscore the complexities of global health governance. Addressing these issues will be essential for achieving the treaty's goals and ensuring that all nations can effectively respond to future pandemics.

The New WHO Pandemic Treaty and Global Health Governance: Incorporating Common but Differentiated Responsibilities into PABS

• “Bilateral agreements are no problem to be honest. It doesn't affect (the annex) and I'm not worried,” — Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General

The Straits Times

• “Early estimates are indicating that ?childhood mortality could increase for the first time this century,” — Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General

The Straits Times