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International Instrument on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response
Treaty Type:
Multilateral
Common Name:
Pandemic Instrument
Responsible Department:
Foreign Affairs and Trade
Administering Department:
Foreign Affairs and Trade
Treaty Summary:
In November 2021, New Zealand and other World Health Organization (WHO) Member States agreed to establish an Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) to draft and negotiate a WHO convention, agreement or other international instrument on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response (PPPR). A new pandemic instrument was a key recommendation of the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response. New Zealand sees this as an important step in ensuring states learn from the lessons of COVID-19 and are better prepared for future health emergencies.
NZ Adherence Status:
In Progress
Negotiation Status:
Negotiations began in February 2022 and had a deadline of May 2024. Negotiations were not able to conclude by this deadline and were extended until May 2025. The last scheduled round of negotiations is from 7-11 April 2025. It is unclear at this stage if negotiations will conclude by the May 2025 deadline, as there are a number of issues outstanding.
Organisation:
World Health Organization
Is Signed By NZ:
No
Signature Date:
Ratified or Signed:
No
Requires Ratification:
No
NZ Territorial Applications:
None
Information about required Legislation:
Impacts on Maori:
The INB’s negotiations are key to ensuring more equitable health outcomes in future health emergencies. It is widely recognised that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing health inequities around the world, and in New Zealand, Māori have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 (and are at higher risk of adverse outcomes than the general population).
Impacts on Stakeholders:
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that the international system for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response requires strengthening. The Government has been committed to consulting interested parties throughout the process. MFAT had two rounds of consultation where it sought submissions on how New Zealand should engage in negotiations for the Pandemic Treaty. The consultation was publicised on social media. The public submissions were taken into account in developing New Zealand’s positions in the negotiations. If the negotiations conclude, any decision to become bound by the treaty would be subject to the full treaty making process including Cabinet approval, a full Select Committee process, a National Interest Analysis and Parliamentary Examination. During the Select Committee process there will be a further opportunity for the public to make submissions on the treaty.
Link To Legislation:
Treaty Text Link:
Contact Information:
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