The World Health Organization (WHO) Member States have made significant strides in their negotiations on the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) system during a resumed session of the Intergovernmental Working Group (IGWG). This session took place from January 20 to 22, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to establish guidelines for sharing pathogens with pandemic potential. The PABS system is a fundamental component of the agreement adopted by the World Health Assembly (WHA) in May 2025.
During this latest meeting, Member States engaged in text-based negotiations to address outstanding issues in the draft annex. They exchanged viewpoints aimed at narrowing differences and identifying areas of common ground. According to Ambassador Tovar da Silva Nunes, co-chair of the IGWG and representative from Brazil, there are encouraging signs of emerging consensus on several aspects of the PABS system. He stated, “I am encouraged by the progress we have made in several areas, with signs of emerging consensus for some parts of the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing system.”
The IGWG, established by the WHA, has a priority mandate to draft and negotiate the PABS system. This framework is intended to facilitate the safe, transparent, and accountable sharing of pathogens and their genetic information, while ensuring the fair distribution of benefits derived from their use. Such benefits include vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics.
Mr. Matthew Harpur, co-chair of the IGWG from the United Kingdom, emphasized the constructive discussions that have taken place. “As we make progress towards the May deadline, I am encouraged by their willingness to work together and bridge differences to deliver an effective Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing system,” he remarked.
The resumed session followed a request from Member States to extend the fourth meeting of the IGWG, which was held in December 2025. The ongoing negotiations are crucial as they seek to address complex issues that remain unresolved. Further meetings of the IGWG are scheduled in the coming months, indicating a sustained commitment to advancing this important initiative.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, highlighted the significance of a robust PABS system, stating, “A strong Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing system will be a cornerstone of a safer and more equitable world. I thank countries for their commitment to multilateral solutions.”
The results of the IGWG’s work will be presented to the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly in May 2026 for consideration. As nations work collaboratively towards this goal, the establishment of a comprehensive PABS system is seen as vital for enhancing global health security and ensuring equitable access to benefits derived from pathogen research and development.
