19 May 2025 – Geneva: Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO), meeting today in Committee A of the World Health Assembly, have approved a landmark resolution endorsing the adoption of the WHO Pandemic Agreement — a groundbreaking global accord aimed at strengthening the world’s defenses against future pandemics. The resolution will now move to the Assembly’s plenary session for final adoption on Tuesday, 20 May.
This milestone follows more than three years of intensive negotiations, initiated in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, to develop the world’s first international agreement focused on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. Adopted under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution, the agreement is designed to close critical gaps in the global health architecture and promote more equitable and coordinated responses to future health emergencies.
“The approval of the Pandemic Agreement by WHO Member States represents a powerful commitment to building a healthier, safer, and more equitable world,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “I commend Member States for coming together in solidarity and determination after the devastation of COVID-19. This accord will ensure nations are better equipped — and more united — in facing the next pandemic threat.”
The agreement emphasizes inclusive collaboration among countries, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector. It aims to enhance cooperation, strengthen health systems, and ensure that public health responses are informed by the best available science and evidence.
Dr Esperance Luvindao, Minister of Health and Social Services of Namibia and Chair of Committee A, welcomed the decision:
“The WHO Pandemic Agreement reflects our shared global aspiration to prevent and respond more effectively to future pandemics, anchored in the principles of equity, solidarity, sovereignty, and respect for human dignity. COVID-19 imposed profound costs on lives, economies, and societies. As sovereign nations, we are now united in our resolve to protect future generations, frontline health workers, and all communities around the world. This is our collective responsibility to humanity.”
Following Tuesday’s plenary session, the Assembly will host a High-Level Segment featuring statements from Heads of State and Government in recognition of this historic accord.
