Political and Institutional Factors Influencing WHO Pandemic Declarations: An Analysis Beyond the Legal Framework of the IHR

Key Points

• This analysis explores the political and institutional influences on WHO pandemic declarations, emphasizing the limitations of the IHR framework.
• Examined the political interests and diplomatic considerations surrounding the WHO pandemic declaration process.
• Reviewed internal dynamics among WHO bodies and their effect on decision-making regarding pandemics.
• Discussed reform options in the context of a forthcoming pandemic instrument under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution.
• Identified key political factors that hinder transparency in the WHO pandemic declaration process.
• Outlined the significant impact of diplomatic considerations on WHO's decision-making during pandemics.
• Proposed specific reform options to enhance the effectiveness and transparency of the pandemic declaration process.