The WHO Director-General addresses the 13th meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body on the pandemic agreement, emphasizing global cooperation. The meeting focuses on shaping a legally binding framework for future pandemic preparedness and response.
Our esteemed Co-Chairs, Precious and Anne-Claire,
Our respected Vice-Chairs, Ambassador Tovar, Ambassador Ramadan, Dr. Viroj, and Ms. Davis,
Excellencies, colleagues, and friends,
Good morning, and welcome once again to WHO.
First, I want to express my gratitude to the co-chairs, vice-chairs, and the bureau members for your exemplary leadership and dedication. Thank you for the draft text you have presented, which skillfully integrates the diverse perspectives of Member States, while aligning them with public health priorities.
I also extend my thanks to all Member States for their continued commitment to this process.
We are now at a pivotal moment, as we approach the finalization of the Pandemic Agreement ahead of the World Health Assembly. This is truly a moment of “now or never,” but I am confident that you will choose to act now, as you understand what is at stake.
We carry with us the painful lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, which tragically claimed around 20 million lives, and which continues to cause suffering. These lessons remind us why we are here: to safeguard future generations from the devastation of future pandemics.
We know the next pandemic is not a question of “if,” but “when.” The threat is ever-present, as evidenced by the ongoing risks of diseases like Ebola, Marburg, measles, mpox, influenza, and the looming danger of another disease X.
The lesson from COVID-19 remains clear: “no one is safe until everyone is safe.” No nation can protect itself in isolation, and bilateral agreements alone are not enough.
Prevention, preparedness, and response are global responsibilities that we all must share.
Achieving unity, of course, is challenging, but this is the essence and strength of multilateralism.
On February 14, the United States government informed WHO of its decision to withdraw from the intergovernmental process. We deeply regret this decision, as we did with the U.S. withdrawal from WHO, and we sincerely hope that the U.S. will reconsider.
Thank you all for your continued hard work and remarkable progress, despite the critics. You have reached consensus on numerous critical issues.
The finish line is now in sight—together, we are on the verge of creating a landmark legal framework that will help the world prepare for future challenges.
Along with the important amendments to the International Health Regulations that were adopted last year, the Pandemic Agreement will undoubtedly make the world safer for all.
As always, we are grateful for your engagement and leadership, and we look forward to your input, feedback, and support.
Thank you.
