Global push for new pandemic treaty
Global push for new pandemic treaty
Updated at: September 20, 2026 at 02:15 AM
In response to the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, the world is moving toward a new era of health security.
In May 2025, WHO member states formally adopted the WHO Pandemic Agreement, a landmark effort to improve international cooperation.
This historic treaty is the second of its kind, following the 2003 tobacco control convention.
This essential component aims to ensure that when countries share data on dangerous pathogens, they receive guaranteed, equitable access to vaccines and treatments in return.
The treaty focuses on 'vaccine equity,' a 'One Health' approach that monitors animal-to-human disease transmission, and strengthened global supply chains.
Importantly, the agreement respects national sovereignty and does not grant the WHO authority to enforce domestic mandates like lockdowns.
Despite current challenges in finalizing the PABS annex, the international community views this treaty as a vital shield against future threats.
By moving from reactive emergency responses to a proactive, rule-based framework, the world hopes to ensure that future pandemics are met with global unity rather than division.
