Pandemic treaty is a win for multilateralism and global health
The World Health Organization’s pandemic agreement represents a powerful commitment to global health and security, writes Nina Schwalbe In April in Geneva, as the US withdrew from engagement in global health, member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) agreed the text of a historic new treaty for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response.1 After three years of discussion, the agreement will be tabled for approval at the upcoming World Health Assembly (WHA).1 The agreement is a step forward for equity and global solidarity. It includes a range of new commitments that, if financed and implemented, will make the world safer from and during pandemics. It is also a powerful reminder that multilateralism is alive and well—with or without the US.2 The treaty sets out a comprehensive framework for action. It covers what needs to change now and in the future to build a stronger and more collaborative system for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. Although not as bold
