WHO members adopt global pandemic accord

The World Health Organization adopted its first international pandemic agreement during the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva on Tuesday, to bolster global cooperation in preventing and responding to future pandemics.

The agreement outlines measures to enhance surveillance and ensure equitable access to vaccines and treatments following the uncoordinated global response to COVID-19.

124 countries voted in favor while 11 abstained.

The accord was touted as a "gift to the world" by the WHO Director General.

Notably, the United States did not participate in the treaty, having withdrawn from the WHO under the Trump administration, criticizing the body as "moribund."