WHO Adopts Pandemic Treaty Without US Participation

The World Health Organization (WHO) member states have adopted a historic, legally binding Pandemic Agreement aimed at improving global preparedness, response, and equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics during future pandemics. The treaty requires manufacturers to reserve 20% of pandemic-related medical supplies for the WHO to assist low-income countries, addressing inequities seen during COVID-19. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hailed the pact as a victory for public health and multilateral cooperation, emphasizing its role in preventing the disjointed global response experienced during the coronavirus pandemic. However, the agreement's effectiveness is questioned due to the absence of the United States, which exited the talks following its withdrawal from the WHO initiated under the Trump administration. Additionally, the treaty lacks enforcement mechanisms, meaning countries are not penalized for non-compliance, raising concerns about its practical impact. Despite these challenges, the agreement reflects a global commitment to collective action to mitigate the devastating effects of future pandemics.