Global pandemic accord adopted by WHO amid U.S. absence – CBC

Absence of the U.S. casts doubt on the treaty’s effectiveness

May 20, 2025

Members of the World Health Organization adopted an agreement on Tuesday intended to improve preparedness for future pandemics following the disjointed global response to COVID-19, but the absence of the U.S. cast doubt on the treaty’s effectiveness.

After three years of negotiations, the legally binding pact was adopted by the World Health Assembly in Geneva. WHO member countries welcomed its passing with applause.

The pact was touted as a victory for members of the global health agency at a time when multilateral organizations like the WHO have been battered by sharp cuts in U.S. foreign funding.

“The agreement is a victory for public health, science and multilateral action. It will ensure we, collectively, can better protect the world from future pandemic threats,” said WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Read more: https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/who-pandemic-treaty-1.7538851