Charles Esther
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has applauded the adoption of the Pandemic Agreement during the 4th G20 Health Working Group meeting in Johannesburg.
This groundbreaking treaty is now the second international health agreement adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) since 1948.
Supported by 124 member states, the agreement marks a historic turning point in how the world prepares for and responds to pandemics.
Its approval follows years of intensive negotiation, sparked by global shortcomings revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Critical Milestone in Global Health Collaboration
The Pandemic Agreement was officially welcomed on Tuesday, with Motsoaledi describing it as a momentous achievement for international public health.
He emphasized that the agreement reflects the shared resolve of nations to ensure collective protection from future pandemics.
According to Motsoaledi, this framework was developed by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) after global vulnerabilities became evident during COVID-19.
He praised the INB’s diligence, noting their work laid the foundation for a legally binding commitment to pandemic prevention and preparedness.
South Africa played a crucial leadership role in the negotiations as co-chair of the INB, partnering with France and the Netherlands.
The team also worked alongside vice-chairs representing Brazil, Thailand, Egypt, and New Zealand to reach consensus on the final draft.
Four Pillars of the Pandemic Agreement
Aaron Motsoaledi outlined four key pillars at the core of the Pandemic Agreement.
These include equitable access to pandemic-related health products and a global supply chain and logistics network.
Additionally, the framework proposes a new financial mechanism to support countries during health emergencies.
This will ensure rapid access to funding and life-saving tools when future outbreaks occur.
The agreement aims to reduce the disparities experienced by low- and middle-income countries during global health crises.
Embracing the One Health Approach
One of the defining features of the agreement is its “One Health” approach.
This concept highlights the interconnected nature of human, animal, and environmental health.
It recognizes that pandemics often originate at the intersection of these areas and must be addressed holistically.
By implementing this approach, the agreement ensures future strategies will consider environmental and veterinary health alongside public health.
This comprehensive vision is now central to global pandemic preparedness and prevention.
The Role of the PABS System
The agreement also introduces a new system called Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS).
This system requires pharmaceutical companies to share 20% of production during pandemics.
In return, they gain access to vital pathogen data that can speed up research and development.
The PABS mechanism ensures that all nations benefit from shared scientific knowledge, especially in emergencies.
Motsoaledi stated that this system is crucial for closing the equity gap exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It represents a fair and effective solution to help low-income nations access essential medical supplies.
A Pivotal Role for Africa
As a leading representative for the African region, Aaron Motsoaledi expressed strong support for the agreement’s goals.
He believes the Pandemic Agreement will help correct global imbalances in access to life-saving pandemic tools.
During COVID-19, Africa faced major challenges in acquiring vaccines, treatments, and protective equipment.
Motsoaledi sees the new treaty as a bold step toward justice and fairness in global health.
He reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to advocating for equal treatment of all nations during future pandemics.
Urging Action on the PABS Annex
While celebrating the agreement, Motsoaledi emphasized the need to finalize the PABS annex.
He described it as the “litmus test” of global commitment and urged the Intergovernmental Working Group to meet by July 15, 2025.
Finalizing the annex will transform the agreement from a written framework into a powerful, actionable tool.
He called on world leaders to remain engaged and to act swiftly in the spirit of unity and shared purpose.
Without timely action, the momentum created by the treaty’s adoption could be lost.
Global Leaders Gather in Johannesburg
The G20 Health Working Group meeting is taking place in Johannesburg and runs until Friday, June 13, 2025.
The gathering includes health ministers, experts, and senior officials from the world’s leading economies and invited nations.
Representatives from global organizations are also present to support dialogue on the future of international health policy.
The event offers a platform for leaders to collaborate and align their strategies around pandemic prevention and response.
It also reinforces the importance of multilateral action in building a safer and healthier world for all.
What’s Next for the Pandemic Agreement?
As the treaty moves into the implementation phase, the focus will shift to accountability, transparency, and funding.
Nations will need to align their national strategies with the agreement’s goals to achieve measurable progress.
International cooperation and continued political will are essential to the success of the Pandemic Agreement.
Its adoption is not the end but rather the beginning of a new chapter in global health diplomacy.
