Semanur OKTAY, Research Assistant at the Department of Health Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Gelisim University, evaluates the WHO’s “Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Agreement” as a significant opportunity in terms of crisis management, resource planning, and global health diplomacy. OKTAY emphasized that this agreement, aiming to reduce resource inequalities frequently encountered in the health systems of low- and middle-income countries, could enable health managers to carry out a more predictable and planned pandemic response.
Geneva, 20 May 2025 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has taken a historic step to strengthen the global response to pandemics. With the unanimous support of 124 countries, the new Pandemic Agreement seeks to ensure a more equitable and effective fight against future health crises.
The COVID-19 pandemic showed how devastating it can be to face such crises unprepared. Access to vaccines, medication, and medical support was extremely difficult for some countries. This new agreement aims to prevent such inequalities.
Fair Distribution: A portion of the vaccines, tests, and treatments developed during a pandemic will be provided to low-income countries either free of charge or at affordable prices.
Data and Information Sharing: Countries will share the genetic information of new viruses rapidly, allowing scientists to develop solutions earlier.
WHO Will Not Intervene in National Policies: The agreement clearly states that “WHO cannot interfere in the internal affairs of countries.” No country’s policies can be forcibly changed.
A Preparedness System Will Be Established: Early warning systems, fair distribution of health products, and support for local manufacturing capacity will be implemented.
Türkiye is among the countries supporting the agreement. The process of incorporating the agreement into national legislation will begin soon. This will help ensure Türkiye is better prepared both nationally and internationally for any future pandemics.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros stated: “This agreement is a major step for public health and global solidarity.”
Experts believe that with this agreement, the world will be much stronger and better prepared for the next pandemic.
This agreement concerns not only governments, but all of us. Through scientific collaboration, fair distribution, and early preparedness, it may be possible to minimize losses in the next global health crisis.
