We welcome the finalised draft of the Pandemic Agreement and strongly encourage Member States to support its adoption.
Within the draft agreement, we especially welcome:
● The emphasis on human rights, non-discrimination, equity, inclusion and protection of persons and people in vulnerable situations, and reference to key international human rights instruments including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women; the Convention on the Rights of the Child; and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
● The definition of “persons” and “people” in vulnerable situations, which includes those likely to bear a disproportionate burden owing to social determinants of health, as well as those with disproportionate increased risk of infection, morbidity, or mortality.
● The commitment to give attention to those in vulnerable situations and their needs in access to essential health care, in the Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network, and in transfer of technology and cooperation for the production of pandemic‑related health products.
● The emphasis on whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches, with measures to mitigate the socioeconomic impacts of pandemics and to strengthen public health and social policies to facilitate a rapid, inclusive, resilient responses.
In their action to strengthen their health emergencies architecture to support future implementation of the pandemic agreement, we urge Member States to fully consider the needs and ensure the participation of those in vulnerable situations, including persons with disabilities, older people and those living with NCDs.