Agenda item: Framework for the implementation of the International Health Regulations amendments (IHRs) in the WHO African Region: 2026–2030
Médecins Sans Frontières welcomes the amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHRs) as an important step towards equity and access. We are encouraged by the recognition of the need to strengthen capacities in fragile and humanitarian settings, ensure equitable access to health products as a core capacity for emergency preparedness and response, and support countries in removing barriers to life-saving health products.
WHO, regional organizations and governments should work together and use the IHR’s equity provisions to support these efforts through coordinated implementation. The ongoing Ebola disease outbreak reinforces the importance of doing so. Full implementation of IHRs’ already agreed access related obligations, aligned with the Pandemic Agreement and its Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing System, is essential to close preparedness gaps and better protect those most affected by outbreaks.
