[Answered] The WHO Pandemic Treaty represents a landmark global initiative to institutionalize pandemic preparedness, equity, and solidarity – but faces complex geopolitical and implementation challenges. Discuss.

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of global health systems, vaccine inequity, and the lack of coordinated response mechanisms. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) initiated negotiations for a legally binding Pandemic Treaty, now set for adoption at the 78th World Health Assembly in May 2025. It aims to institutionalize preparedness, equity, and solidarity in global health governance.

Significance of the Treaty

1. Institutionalizing Preparedness: The Treaty adopts a “One Health” approach, recognizing links between human, animal, and environmental health, and seeks to prevent zoonotic spillovers.
2. Health Equity and Solidarity: It mandates equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics through a proposed Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) system, addressing disparities experienced during COVID-19 (e.g., <20% vaccinated in Africa vs 70% in high-income countries by 2022).
3. Technology Transfer and Capacity Building: It obliges countries to share knowledge and skills, prioritizing local production in low and middle-income countries, aligning with India’s advocacy for IPR flexibility.
4. Multilateral Commitment: The Treaty reinforces WHO’s central role and represents a rare moment of global consensus, especially amid rising nationalism and health sovereignty concerns.

Challenges and Complexities

1. Geopolitical Fractures: The United States’ withdrawal from WHO in 2025 and non-participation in final treaty talks undermines universal legitimacy and weakens global enforcement.
2. Sovereignty Concerns: Nations resisted WHO’s influence on domestic policies. The final draft therefore includes strong clauses affirming national sovereignty over public health decisions.
3. Lack of Binding Enforcement: Like the International Health Regulations (2005), the Treaty lacks mechanisms to compel compliance, reducing its effectiveness in future crises.
4. North-South Divide: Tensions persist over data sharing vs. reciprocal access to vaccines and treatments. Developed countries push for early pathogen disclosure, while LMICs demand equity guarantees.
5. Pharmaceutical Lobbying and IP Rights: Resistance from multinational companies could delay tech transfer provisions critical for pandemic equity.

Conclusion

The WHO Pandemic Treaty is a landmark step toward a more resilient and equitable global health architecture. However, its success hinges on universal ratification, balanced implementation, and addressing deep geopolitical divides. As the world prepares for future pandemics, bridging these gaps will determine whether this Treaty remains a symbol or a solution.