Pandemic treaty lays foundation for safer global future

More than three years of intense negotiations, marked by missed deadlines, high stakes disagreements, and political walkouts, have finally led to a historic agreement between 194 World Health Organization (WHO) member states – with the notable exception of the United States. This landmark accord lays a foundational framework for preventing, preparing for, and responding to future pandemics, emphasizing equity, solidarity, and resilience in global health systems. A landmark for multilateral cooperation Finalized in Geneva after a marathon session, the treaty was hailed by WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as a “historic moment.” Despite numerous obstacles, including deep geopolitical divides, the treaty’s completion is being celebrated as a victory for multilateralism. “Nations can still work together to find common ground and a shared response to shared threats,” Tedros said in the early hours after debates concluded. The negotiations saw significant leadership from countries in the Global South, especially after the U.S. under President...