The world is on the brink of a groundbreaking agreement that could reshape how we prepare for and respond to future pandemics. But here's where it gets controversial: how do we ensure fair access to pathogens and their benefits while balancing the interests of all nations? WHO Member States recently concluded their latest round of intense negotiations on the world’s first Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS) system, a move that could redefine global health equity. Recognizing the urgency, countries have decided to reconvene in January 2026, demonstrating a shared commitment to making the world safer from future health crises.
From December 1–5, 2025, representatives gathered in Geneva for the fourth meeting of the Intergovernmental Working Group (IGWG) on the WHO Pandemic Agreement. They agreed to extend the negotiations, resuming from January 20–22, 2026. This decision underscores the complexity and importance of creating a system that ensures pathogens and their genetic information are shared fairly, transparently, and in a timely manner. And this is the part most people miss: the PABS system isn’t just about sharing resources—it’s about building a foundation for equitable pandemic response, ensuring that no country is left behind.
The World Health Assembly tasked the IGWG with drafting and negotiating the PABS annex to the WHO Pandemic Agreement, a priority that could revolutionize global health governance. Member States have called for a PABS platform to operate as a global system, distributing pathogens, their genetic data, and the benefits derived from their use in a way that promotes fairness and transparency. This system aims to pave the way for a more effective and equitable response to the next pandemic, addressing the disparities exposed by recent global health crises.
IGWG Bureau co-chair Mr. Matthew Harpur of the United Kingdom expressed optimism: “As we pass the halfway mark in these negotiations, I’m encouraged by the progress we’ve made toward a faster and more equitable global response to future pandemics. Member States have shown a genuine commitment to finding common ground, and I’m confident we’re on track to deliver a robust PABS system by the next World Health Assembly.”
Ambassador Tovar da Silva Nunes of Brazil, another IGWG Bureau co-chair, added: “WHO Member States have demonstrated their dedication to completing this critical task. The advancements in access, benefit-sharing, and governance provide a solid foundation for moving forward. We believe we can create a strong, balanced PABS system that benefits everyone.”
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the significance of this endeavor: “This is both a generational opportunity and a generational responsibility. I commend Member States and the IGWG Bureau for their efforts. As we approach the end of the year, we’re well-positioned to build consensus, finalize the draft, and prepare for adoption at next year’s World Health Assembly. Together, we’re moving toward a world better prepared for future pandemics.”
Before the fourth session, the IGWG Bureau organized informal dialogues with stakeholders, including representatives from the private sector, academia, laboratories, and sequence information databases. These discussions will continue in the coming weeks, setting the stage for the resumed session in January. The fifth IGWG meeting is scheduled for February 9–14, 2026.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: As we edge closer to a global PABS system, how can we ensure that the benefits of pathogen sharing are equitably distributed, especially to low-income countries that often bear the brunt of pandemics? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that could shape the future of global health equity.
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