By Joy Omagha Idam
The Co-Chair of the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response, Helen Clark, has warned that the world remains dangerously unprepared for future pandemic threats, calling for urgent global action to strengthen health systems and response mechanisms.
In a statement ahead of the upcoming World Health Assembly, Clark expressed concern that key operational details of the Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS) Annex were not finalised in time for adoption. She stressed that the annex is critical to ensuring equity within the WHO Pandemic Agreement, noting that without it, the broader agreement cannot move forward for ratification.
Clark described the delay as “deeply regrettable,” warning that if a new pathogen were to emerge today, the global community would still be largely unprepared. She emphasized that failure to act on pandemic prevention and preparedness amounts to a serious disservice to humanity.
Despite the setback, Clark urged governments not to delay action. She called on countries to strengthen implementation of the amended International Health Regulations, which are already in force. According to her, all nations must build the capacity to detect and rapidly report outbreaks that could pose international threats, with effective surveillance systems serving as a critical foundation.
She also highlighted the importance of updating national preparedness plans using lessons learned from COVID-19. Emphasizing a “One Health” approach, Clark noted the need for coordinated efforts across sectors, supported by regular simulation exercises to test response readiness.
The former New Zealand Prime Minister further underscored the importance of global coordination, stating that no country’s health security is stronger than that of its neighbours. She called for increased regional self-reliance and resilience to better respond to future health crises.
On financing, Clark pointed out significant gaps, noting that pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response remain underfunded. She warned that there is no adequate global surge financing mechanism for emergencies, while many low- and middle-income countries continue to struggle with high debt burdens and declining development assistance.
She added that new international financing would be a critical investment capable of saving millions of lives and protecting trillions of dollars in the event of another pandemic.
Clark concluded by urging global leaders not to overlook foreseeable health risks amid competing priorities. She called on them to demonstrate commitment at the forthcoming UN High-Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response, where key gaps in coordination, financing, equity, and accountability must be addressed.
According to her, the world cannot afford to delay preparations for the next pandemic.