World Health Organization Takes Major Step To Handle Future Pandemics After Chaos Of COVID

In Geneva, member countries of the World Health Organization agreed on Tuesday to enhance measures for preventing, preparing for, and responding to future pandemics following the devastation caused by the coronavirus. The agreement, developed over three years, received unanimous approval at the WHO’s annual assembly, drawing sustained applause. The United States, a major donor to the UN health agency, did not participate in the final stages of the pandemic agreement process due to its withdrawal from the WHO under the Trump administration.

Various world leaders expressed support for the UN health agency and lauded the demonstration of multilateralism. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the accord as a collective commitment to combat future pandemics through increased cooperation and efforts to promote a healthier planet. While many hailed the agreement as historic, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. criticized the WHO, advocating for the creation of new transparent and efficient institutions to address global health challenges.

The U.S. administration cited the WHO’s handling of COVID-19 and its failure to implement necessary reforms, along with concerns about China’s influence on the agency. In contrast, China reaffirmed its support for the WHO politically and financially. Vice Premier Liu Guozhong emphasized the importance of backing the WHO’s role in global health governance and pledged additional financial support, potentially amounting to $500 million over five years. The U.S., which suspended its contributions to the WHO, was set to contribute over $700 million to the current budget, while China was prepared to offer more than $200 million.

French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the significance of scientific research, indirectly referencing U.S. funding cuts in that area. The effectiveness of the treaty faces uncertainty without U.S. participation, and countries are not subject to penalties for noncompliance. Efforts are ongoing to finalize an annex to the treaty ensuring equitable access to tests, medicines, and vaccines for countries sharing virus samples. Despite the challenges, countries aim to adopt this annex by the next assembly to address the costs and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on lives, economies, and livelihoods.