78th WHA Individual Statements
Honourable Chairperson, Distinguished Delegates,
The IFMSA congratulates Member States on adopting the pandemic agreement. As medical students, we witnessed firsthand how COVID-19 exposed deep inequities and overwhelmed health systems.
To be effective, this instrument must place health equity at its core. The unequal access to vaccines, diagnostics, and care during the pandemic must not be repeated. Equitable health systems and inclusive resource-sharing are essential.
As we move from negotiation to implementation, we urge Member States to ratify and operationalise the agreement with urgency and commitment. We also call for recognition of the vital role of young people.
Medical students are not only future leaders — we are part of today’s health workforce. Engaging us in preparedness and response efforts will strengthen the resilience of health systems for future crises.
Words alone will not prepare us — only action will.
Thank you.