SEATINI Uganda Joins Global Effort to Oppose Unfair WHO Pandemic Accord

SEATINI Uganda Joins Global Effort to Oppose Unfair WHO Pandemic Accord

Last month, SEATINI Uganda, in collaboration with Third World Network (TWN) and other civil society organizations (CSOs), took a stand against the pressure to adopt an inequitable Pandemic Accord at the World Health Organization (WHO). The joint statement, signed by SEATINI Uganda and its partners, addressed country missions at the WHO, urging them to resist the adoption of a flawed Pandemic Accord.

The statement highlighted several key concerns regarding the negotiation process of the Pandemic Instrument. It criticized the lack of effective text-based negotiations, which have failed to promote consensus among WHO Member States. Additionally, the statement expressed worry that important pro-equity proposals were being omitted from the negotiation text, putting smaller delegations at a disadvantage.

As the resumed session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) meeting approaches, SEATINI Uganda emphasizes the need for Member States to engage in genuine, text-based negotiations. The organization rejects the pressure tactics that force countries to accept the Bureau’s default text without room for meaningful discussion.

The joint statement calls for concrete provisions in the Pandemic Instrument to address the current lack of equity, including:

• Equitable access to pandemic-related products through coordinated research and development, diversified production networks, and technology transfer mechanisms.
• Legal assurances for health and care workers, ensuring access to pandemic-related products and addressing disparities in the workforce.
  A comprehensive Pathogens Access and Benefit Sharing System (PABS) that treats access and benefit sharing equally, with fair and accountable systems for users.
• Creation of a fund for implementing the Pandemic Instrument and International Health Regulations (IHR), based on common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR) for financial resources.

SEATINI Uganda urges Member States not to succumb to pressure and to prioritize equity in the Pandemic Accord negotiations. The organization emphasizes the importance of sustainable and predictable access to pandemic-related products, technology, and finance.

In solidarity with other CSOs and alliances, SEATINI Uganda remains committed to advocating for a fair and equitable global health policy.

For more information, read the full statement here