Britain refuses to sign WHO pandemic accord over vaccine sharing

As per the pandemic accord, 20 % of tests, treatments and vaccines to be shared among poorer countries 

Britain has declined to sign the World Health Organization's (WHO) proposed pandemic accord, citing concerns over the redistribution of vaccines, as reported by The Telegraph on Tuesday.

The accord aims to ensure fair distribution of resources during global health crises, including reserving 20 per cent of tests, treatments, and vaccines for distribution in poorer nations.

According to media reports the Department of Health and Social Care stated that they would only support the adoption of the accord if it aligns with the national interest and respects sovereignty.

However, a DHSC spokesperson refrained from detailing the specific proposals within the accord, emphasising that no agreements had been reached yet.

The WHO has not yet responded to requests for comment on this matter.

The proposed pact, alongside updates to existing pandemic management protocols, seeks to fortify the global response to emerging pathogens following the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, according to Reuters,  disagreements persist between affluent nations and developing countries regarding the equitable sharing of vaccines and treatments.

Negotiations on the accord are set to conclude on May 10, with plans for adoption during the WHO's upcoming annual assembly later this month.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged countries to reach consensus within the deadline, emphasising the importance of collective action in combating future pandemics.

He called upon nations not fully in agreement with the text to refrain from obstructing consensus among the WHO's 194 member states.