Countries Advance WHO Pandemic Agreement Annex
Member States have begun the first discussions on the proposed draft annex to the WHO Pandemic Agreement, establishing the Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS) system. This system is a critical component of the global agreement adopted earlier in 2025 aimed at enhancing global safety against future pandemics.
Intergovernmental Working Group Meeting
The draft annex was reviewed during the Third meeting of the Intergovernmental Working Group (IGWG), held from 3 to 7 November in Geneva. The IGWG was set up by the World Health Assembly to perform several duties, prioritizing the drafting and negotiation of the PABS annex.
WHO Leadership Statement
“I thank Member States for their vital efforts to negotiate the first draft of the PABS annex and commend them on the progress made in finding shared positions and solutions to the shared risks and challenges posed by future pandemics,” said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
“Solidarity is our best immunity. Finalizing the Pandemic Agreement, through a commitment to multilateral action, is our collective promise to protect humanity.”
Importance of Timely Pathogen Sharing
For prompt and effective responses to pandemics, countries must quickly identify pathogens with pandemic potential and share their genetic information and samples. This collaboration enables scientists to develop essential tools such as tests, treatments, and vaccines.
Author’s summary: The initial discussions on the WHO Pandemic Agreement’s PABS annex mark key progress in global cooperation to share pathogen data rapidly and improve preparedness for future pandemics.