Released following the initial session of Sixth Meeting of the Intergovernmental Working Group (IGWG 6; 23-28 March 2026).
We are encouraged that Member States committed to conclude the PABS Annex to the Pandemic Agreement, and set dates to continue negotiations – actions critically needed to cement a more equitable future for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response and advancing policies that change the status quo.
It is important that negotiators remain focused on turning the potential landing zones discussed this week into consensus language and expeditiously conclude PABS negotiations. After six rounds of negotiations, positions are well-known. Member States must find a concrete path forward that honors the commitment to establish a safe, transparent, accountable, effective, and equitable access and benefit-sharing system, and meets our moment in time. There is still time to finalise PABS before the 79th World Health Assembly, and we urge negotiators to stay at the table, make the most of the intersessional period, and get a deal done.
The Pandemic Agreement – including PABS – is one of the most tangible changes to the global order post-COVID-19. The gains for critical issues like supply chains, surveillance, R&D, clinical trials, and coordinated financing can move us forward together. We cannot let this opportunity slip through our fingers.
