US response to UN pandemic talks ‘severely weakens’ global planning, says leading health expert
Summary
The United States blocked a United Nations political declaration on pandemic preparedness, preventing its adoption by consensus. This declaration was meant to promote international cooperation to prepare for and respond to future global health threats.Key Facts
- The UN planned to adopt a declaration on pandemic prevention and response on 25 September.
- The US delegate said it could not support the declaration, stopping consensus approval.
- Italy also rejected the document, and the EU had concerns about intellectual property rules related to technology sharing.
- The US had issues with mentions of equity and access to sexual and reproductive health services in the text.
- The US withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO) early in President Trump’s term.
- The political declaration is not legally binding but shows countries’ willingness to cooperate.
- The WHO’s main treaty on pandemic response is delayed due to disagreements over sharing vaccines and treatments.
- The declaration may be adopted later by majority vote at a future UN meeting despite US opposition.
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