The Pandemic Agreement: What's Next?

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical weaknesses in global health governance, prompting the development of the WHO Pandemic Agreement, formally adopted by the World Health Assembly in May 2025. This landmark Agreement seeks to address the shortcomings of the 2005 International Health Regulations by establishing legally binding commitments to enhance pandemic preparedness, equity, and international solidarity. However, the negotiation process revealed deep geopolitical divisions, raising concerns about the Agreement's legitimacy and enforceability. Key provisions include improved surveillance, data sharing, protection for healthcare workers, and equitable access to medical countermeasures. Nevertheless, its effectiveness may be compromised by vague language, unresolved issues, and the absence or abstention of influential states. Implementation is further challenged by political fragmentation, sovereignty concerns, and disparities in national capacities. The Agreement's success will depend on sustained political will, robust accountability mechanisms, and meaningful national adoption. Ongoing debates over the definition of 'pandemic' and the WHO's limited enforcement powers underscore the tension between multilateral cooperation and national sovereignty. While the Agreement represents a significant step forward, it is not a panacea. Its promise lies in its potential to catalyse coordinated global action, but only if supported by genuine commitment and adaptive governance. As the world faces future health threats, the Pandemic Agreement must evolve into a practical tool for resilience, equity, and collective security.