Independent Monitoring for the Pandemic Accord - A Proposal For Action
Based on evidence from monitoring other treaties, expert interviews, and analysis of various forms of independence, we have developed a proposal outlining the “draft zero” Terms of Reference for a Pandemic Agreement Independent Monitoring Committee. This report builds on earlier research (see below)
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As summarized in the report and policy brief, the primary purpose of an Independent Committee would be to verify the timeliness, completeness, and accuracy of Member State reports. It would complement state self-reporting and peer review outlined in the current draft of the Pandemic Agreement.
The negotiating text of the Pandemic Agreement, released on 16 October, puts forward the potential creation of an ‘Implementation and Compliance Committee’ as a subsidiary body to the Conference of the Parties, made up of experts nominated by states. We hope our analysis can inform the Committee's establishment and note that it must perform an independent monitoring function to be effective.
Independent Monitoring for the Pandemic Agreement – A Proposal for Action Final Report
Independent Monitoring for the Pandemic Agreement – A Proposal for Action Policy Brief
Independent Monitoring Mechanism for the Pandemic Accord - Accountability for a Safer World
This November 2022 analysis by Spark Street Advisors features a proposal for independent monitoring of state compliance with an eventual pandemic accord. A short policy brief and key messages are also available to download and share.
A pandemic accord, being negotiated by a World Health Assembly Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB), is scheduled to be agreed in May 2024. Our proposal is based on analysis of monitoring approaches to relevant international treaties, literature reviews, and in-depth interviews and inputs from 40 experts from around the world.
The result of our research is recommendation for an independent monitoring committee which is fully autonomous, able to verify state reports through data triangulation. It reports to a body consisting of or directly accountable to heads of state and government. The committee would focus on elevating instances of non-compliance or inadequacy. Its reports would be available to the public.
To learn more about existing and newly-established mechanisms and initiatives related to pandemic preparedness and response (PPR), check out our rolling review, published in collaboration with the United Nations University International Institute for Global Health.
Independent Monitoring Mechanism for the Pandemic Accord – Accountabilty For a Safer Word
Independent Monitoring Mechanism for the Pandemic Accord – Policy Brief
Independent Monitoring Mechanism for the Pandemic Accord – Advocacy Brief
Tuberculosis and Pandemic Preparedness, Prevention and Response
This April 2023 briefing note aims to serve as resource for the High-Level Meetings (HLM) on Tuberculosis (TB) and Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response (PPR). It lays out joint priorities areas and puts forward distinct “asks” for the HLM on PPR in September 2023 and is available to download and share.
Avoiding the tragedy caused by COVID-19 requires laying the groundwork now for future prevention, preparedness, and response. We must invest in and sustain PPR at the local, national, regional, and international levels to protect health and economic security. We are calling for a concise, action-oriented political declaration which commits to a cohesive
package of reforms to PPR and political leadership.
To learn more, check out the briefing note published in collaboration with the Stop TB Partnership, the Pandemic Action Network, the Global Fund Advocates Network, and United Nations University - IIGH.
Tuberculosis Prevention and Care and Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response - Briefing Paper
Universal Health Coverage and Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response
This April 2023 briefing note aims to serve as resource for the High-Level Meetings (HLM) on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response (PPR). It lays out joint priorities areas and puts forward distinct “asks” for the HLM on PPR in September 2023 and is available to download and share.
Avoiding the tragedy caused by COVID-19 requires laying the groundwork now for future prevention, preparedness, and response. We must invest in and sustain PPR at the local, national, regional, and international levels to protect health and economic security. We are calling for a concise, action-oriented political declaration which commits to a cohesive package of reforms to PPR and political leadership.
To learn more, check out the briefing note published in collaboration with the the Pandemic Action Network and United Nations University - IIGH.
Universal Health Coverage and Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response - Briefing Paper
Independent Review and Investigation Mechanisms to Prevent Future Pandemics: A Proposed Way Forward
To inform the design of an accountability system for a pandemic treaty, we explored institutional mechanisms with a mandate to review state compliance with key international agreements and conduct independent country investigations in a manner that manages sovereign considerations.
The report summarizes the findings of our review of 19 international mechanisms. While we found no single global mechanism that could serve as a model in its own right, there is potential to combine aspects of existing mechanisms to support a strong, enforceable treaty. These aspects include i) Periodic review - based on the model of human rights treaties, with independent experts as the authorized monitoring body to ensure independence. ii) On-site investigations - based on the model by the Committee on Prevention of Torture according to which visits cannot be blocked by state parties. iii) Non-negotiable design principles - including accountability; independence; transparency and data sharing; speed; emphasis on capabilities; and incentives. iv) Technical support - WHO can provide countries with technical assistance, tools, monitoring, and assessment to enhance emergency preparedness and response.
