MSF made a strong call today at the WHO INB negotiations for international collaboration to ensure technology transfer. Given the current uncertainty around global health solidarity in low- and middle-income countries, the need for technology transfer will become an even more critical lifeline for countless people worldwide.
April 7, 2025 - As the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) reaches the final stage of negotiations, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) urges World Health Organization (WHO) member states to agree on a meaningful pandemic agreement to uphold equity and to prioritise the medical needs of persons living in humanitarian and resource-limited settings.
There have been several positive developments during multiple rounds of negotiations. We hope member states will secure these developments.
However, we remain concerned about the lack of consensus on a stronger obligation under Article 11 to facilitate technology transfer for equity. Based on MSF’s experience, relying solely on voluntary decision making of technology-holding companies is insufficient. Other measures, such as linking with public funding conditions and measures enshrined under national and international laws, should be recognised.
We also urge member states to uphold the existing international humanitarian law and principles to ensure rapid humanitarian relief during health emergencies.
We welcome the draft provisions under Article 13 to reiterate that the key functions of the Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network should include establishing and coordinating regional and international stockpiles and allocations, with special consideration to facilitate rapid access to health products in humanitarian settings. We urge member states to agree on these important provisions.
The rapidly changing global health landscape presents increasing risks where national interests overshadow international collaboration and seeks to derail the political commitment to equitable pandemic preparedness and response in the future. MSF urges member states to uphold political ambitions expressed over three years ago and finalise a meaningful pandemic agreement at the INB.
