Member states of the World Health Organization have reached a consensus on a groundbreaking treaty aimed at improving global coordination during future pandemics. The legally binding agreement follows years of negotiation and is intended to prevent the confusion and competition seen during the Covid-19 crisis.

Central to the deal is the swift sharing of disease-related information, allowing scientists and pharmaceutical firms to act quickly in developing vaccines and treatments. For the first time, the WHO will also have oversight of international supply chains for essential protective gear like face masks and medical gowns, helping to avoid shortages in times of need.

Described by WHO director-general Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as a "milestone" for global health, the agreement reflects a renewed sense of international cooperation. He praised the collective effort, calling it proof that nations can still unite to face shared global threats.

Under the treaty, pharmaceutical companies will be required to allocate 10% of pandemic-related products to the WHO, with another 10% offered at fair prices. The pact also encourages the sharing of medical technologies with developing nations, although this has stirred debate between wealthier countries and those with fewer resources. A proposed system for pathogen and benefit sharing will allow quicker access to critical data, helping to fast-track global responses in future health emergencies.