International Health Regulations (IHR) Amendments

Source- This post on International Health Regulations (IHR) Amendments has been created based on the article “7th World Health Assembly adopts amendments to International Health Regulations 2005 based on 300 proposals by member states” published in “PIB” on 1 June 2024.

Why in News?

Recently, the 77th World Health Assembly approved a set of amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005). These amendments, based on 300 proposals from member countries following the Covid-19 pandemic, aim to enhance global health preparedness and response.

About the International Health Regulations (IHR) Amendments

1) About: The 77th World Health Assembly endorsed amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005).

2) Objective: The amendments enhance global readiness and response to Public Health Emergencies of International Concern (PHEIC) and Pandemic Emergencies (PE).

3) The amendments facilitate equitable access to health products and mobilize financial resources to help developing countries enhance their health systems under the IHR.

4) Key Features of the Amendments:

i) Provisions for equitable access to health products during emergencies.

ii) Strategies to mobilize financial resources to aid developing countries in building and maintaining necessary health capabilities.

5) The amendments were unanimously adopted on June 1, 2024, at the 77th World Health Assembly.

6) Significance: They represent steps toward greater equity and global solidarity, described as a “gift to our children and grandchildren.”

About 77th World Health Assembly (WHA)

1. Event and Date: The Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly took place in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 27 to June 1, 2024.

2. Theme: This year’s theme was “All for Health, Health for All.”

3. Strategic Approval: Delegates approved a four-year strategy with a budget of US$ 11.1 billion. The strategy aims to promote, provide, and protect health and well-being for all people.

4. Focus Areas:

i) The strategy addresses critical issues such as climate change, aging, migration, pandemic threats, and equity.

ii)  It is designed to adapt to the changing geopolitical landscape, scientific advancements, and technological developments.

5. Role of WHA:

i) The WHA serves as a platform for WHO Member States to discuss and shape leadership, priorities, budgets, and policies in global health.

ii) It plays a vital role in influencing the direction of future health initiatives worldwide.

About the World Health Assembly:

1. It serves as the decision-making body of the World Health Organization.

2. Membership: WHA attended by delegations from all WHO Member States.

3. Functions:

a) Policy Determination: It establishes the policies of the WHO.

b) Director-General Appointment: It appoints the Director-General.

c) Financial Oversight: It oversees financial policies and reviews and approves the proposed program budget.

4. Annual Meeting: The Health Assembly meets annually in Geneva, Switzerland.

UPSC Syllabus: International organisation