DNDi's interventions (posted here following delivery):

Agenda item 16.2: Intergovernmental Negotiating Body to draft and negotiate a WHO convention, agreement or other international instrument on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response 

We congratulate Member States on the adoption of the Pandemic Agreement, and for their leadership and commitment to reaching this important milestone. 

While the text reflects the outcome of extensive negotiations and compromise, it nonetheless contains important provisions that should be swiftly actioned—particularly those related to research and development and production of health products. 

We especially commend Article 9.5, which commits Member States to develop policies regarding conditionalities on public funding for R&D. This is a groundbreaking step that requires governments to have policies that help ensure public investments translate into equitable access to health products. 

But the real work begins now. Ratification is essential—but action should not wait. DNDi urges Member States to immediately implement this provision and leverage their public investments to drive innovation that serves public health needs and delivers access for all.