WHO Adopts First Pandemic Accord, Boosts Health Financing

During the 78th World Health Assembly, held on May 19-27, World Health Organization (WHO) members adopted a series of resolutions focused on improving global health security, financing, and equity.

Among the most significant developments was the adoption of the WHO’s first Pandemic Agreement on May 20, 2025. The agreement, which is the result of over three years of negotiations, aims to strengthen global coordination and equitable access during future pandemics. The resolution also mandates upcoming consultations on the Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing system (PABS), intended to ensure fair access to medical countermeasures.

“The adoption of the Pandemic Agreement and other resolutions shows that cooperation in global health is achievable, even in a divided world,” says Tedros Adhanom, Director General, WHO. 

Additionally, member states approved a second 20% increase in assessed contributions to bolster financial stability. By 2030-2031, these mandatory payments are expected to constitute half of WHO’s core budget. In parallel, a high-level pledging event raised at least US$210 million in additional voluntary contributions toward WHO’s Fourteenth General Programme of Work, adding to the US$1.7 billion already secured.

The assembly passed several other resolutions targeting specific health issues. These included commitments to halve the health effects of air pollution by 2040, promote social connection as a public health priority, and address the health needs of people with rare diseases, a population of over 300 million worldwide. Delegates also endorsed resolutions on lung and kidney health, science-driven health policy standards, and the eradication of Guinea worm disease.

The WHA also adopted decisions to limit the digital marketing of infant formula, advance digital health initiatives, and support new global health days focused on cervical cancer elimination and premature births.

Health emergency preparedness and response remained a core focus. WHO reported responding to 51 emergencies across 89 countries in the past year, including climate-related events and disease outbreaks such as cholera and mpox. Member states reviewed progress on the Health Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Resilience (HEPR) framework and endorsed steps to reinforce international health regulations and research for public health measures.

The WHA78 outcomes reflect ongoing efforts to modernize global health governance and ensure the WHO can respond effectively to future challenges.