WHO Member States Progress in Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing Talks

The World Health Organization (WHO) Member States have made significant strides in negotiations regarding the Pathogen Access and Benefit‐Sharing (PABS) system. This advancement occurred during a resumed session of the Intergovernmental Working Group (IGWG) on the WHO Pandemic Agreement from January 20 to 22, 2026. The PABS system is a fundamental aspect of the agreement that was adopted by the World Health Assembly (WHA) in May 2025.

During this session, Member States engaged in text-based negotiations focusing on unresolved issues within the draft annex. They exchanged perspectives aimed at narrowing differences and identifying areas of agreement. “I am encouraged by the progress we have made in several areas, with signs of emerging consensus for some parts of the Pathogen Access and Benefit‐Sharing system,” stated IGWG Bureau co-chair Ambassador Tovar da Silva Nunes of Brazil. He noted that the upcoming fifth session will concentrate on addressing the remaining complex issues.

The IGWG, established by the WHA, has a priority mandate to draft and negotiate the PABS system. This system aims to facilitate safe, transparent, and accountable sharing of pathogens with pandemic potential, as well as their genetic sequencing information. It also seeks to ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from the use of these pathogens, including vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics.

The recent session followed a request from Member States to extend the fourth IGWG meeting, which took place in December 2025. “Member States have engaged in constructive discussions this week,” remarked IGWG Bureau co-chair Mr. Matthew Harpur from the United Kingdom. He expressed optimism about the collaborative spirit of the discussions as they approach the deadline in May.

The importance of a robust PABS system has been emphasized by Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of WHO, who stated, “A strong Pathogen Access and Benefit‐Sharing system will be a cornerstone of a safer and more equitable world. I thank countries for their commitment to multilateral solutions.”

Additional meetings of the IGWG are planned in the coming months as negotiations continue. The culmination of the IGWG’s work will be submitted for consideration at the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly in May 2026. This initiative represents a significant step towards establishing a more effective global response to pandemics and enhancing international cooperation in public health.