Historic step against pandemics: Global agreement reached

Member countries of the World Health Organization (WHO) have decided to join forces against future devastating outbreaks similar to COVID-19. The "Pandemic Agreement," which emerged as a result of three years of negotiations, was approved on Monday by Committee A of the WHO General Assembly. The agreement is expected to be adopted with full membership in the final vote to be held on Tuesday.

A FAIR AND EFFECTIVE GLOBAL RESPONSE

The primary goal of the agreement is to eliminate the inequality in access to health products that became apparent during the COVID-19 process. It aims to establish a global structure that is better prepared and capable of providing a faster and fairer response to outbreaks. The agreement invites not only countries but also non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and international organizations to act in unison.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated in his remarks, "I thank all the governments that have united for a fairer, healthier, and safer future for our countries and our planet. Taking this step in light of the lessons COVID-19 left us is a historic responsibility."

A NEW GLOBAL SYSTEM IS BEING DEVELOPED

At the heart of the agreement lies a new structure called the "Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing System" (PABS). With this system, in the event of an outbreak, drug manufacturers will be obligated to provide at least 20 percent of the vaccines, treatments, and diagnostic products they develop to the WHO free of charge or at affordable prices.

These products will be prioritized according to public health risks and directed primarily to developing countries. Thus, it is aimed to prevent the "delivery to wealthy countries first" mentality during times of crisis.

A GLOBAL SUPPLY AND LOGISTICS NETWORK WILL BE ESTABLISHED

Within the scope of the agreement, a global health product supply and logistics network that will be activated in emergencies will also be established. This network will provide fast, secure, and cost-effective access to critical products such as vaccines, medicines, and protective equipment.

News Source: 12punto