The UN General Assembly on Tuesday adopted a declaration calling for stronger global efforts to prevent and prepare for pandemics, with 153 votes in favour, three against and two abstentions.
The United States, Argentina and Israel voted against the text, while New Zealand and Paraguay abstained. The declaration had been expected to pass by consensus, but opposition from Washington prompted a vote, according to the UN.
The non-binding declaration urges countries to improve pandemic prevention, preparedness and response through international co-operation, solidarity and science-based action. It also stresses equitable access to health products, respect for human rights and continued access to essential health services during emergencies.
The text cites the Covid-19 pandemic, which emerged in 2019 and caused millions of deaths and major disruption to health systems and economies. It calls for better monitoring of infectious diseases and equitable sharing of pathogen samples and genetic sequence information, while reaffirming countries’ sovereign rights over their biological resources.
The declaration also calls for support to developing countries, including through technology transfer, and for action to address education losses caused by pandemics.
A WHO Pandemic Agreement will be opened for signature and national ratification only after a related annex on pathogen access and benefit-sharing is agreed and adopted by the World Health Assembly.
