Global Pact to Combat Future Pandemics Likely to Miss Initial Deadline

Sources close to the process revealed that negotiators aiming to establish a global pact to address future pandemics are anticipated to miss their initial deadline on Friday.

Challenges in Negotiations:

Deep disagreements regarding equity have hindered progress in drafting the agreement intended to bolster global defenses against new pathogens in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Equity issues and political considerations have complicated the treaty negotiations, contributing to delays and impasses in reaching consensus among member states.

Continued Negotiations:

Despite the deadline setback, talks on the treaty text are expected to persist beyond Friday, focusing on resolving key sticking points and advancing toward a final agreement.

Leaders, including WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, reaffirm their commitment to completing the agreement in time for adoption at the forthcoming World Health Assembly.

Contentious Elements and Pathogen Access:

Disputes over elements such as the “pathogen access and benefits system” have been deferred for further discussion to ensure fair sharing of materials and resources related to pandemics.

Discussions surrounding vaccine sharing, including proposed allocation percentages, remain contentious, with some countries expressing concerns over potential obligations and implications.

Flexibility in Vaccine Distribution:

Existing frameworks provide flexibility in negotiating vaccine access, allowing for varying percentages of vaccines to be distributed at affordable prices or donated to global health organizations.

Experts warn of risks associated with delays, including waning political momentum, particularly in an election year for many countries, underscoring the urgency of advancing the treaty process.