Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing: Can the WHO Pandemic Agreement Bridge the Equity Divide?

The adoption of the WHO Pandemic Agreement in May 2025 marks a pivotal shift toward institutionalizing global pandemic governance. Anchored in principles of equity, solidarity, and human rights, the agreement establishes a Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) System, which aims to ensure equitable access to pandemic-related health products (PRHPs). However, operational ambiguities - particularly in defining pathogen scope, integrating traditional knowledge, enforcing manufacturer obligations, and coordinating with multilateral frameworks like the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Nagoya Protocol - pose significant implementation risks. Crucially, the agreement's effectiveness is intertwined with broader health system resilience. However, specific provisions for PABS integration within a strengthened health system architecture remain underdeveloped. Moreover, critical gaps persist regarding financing, compliance, One Health integration, digital governance, community engagement, and alignment with broader health systems. The success of the agreement hinges on resolving these gaps through subsequent protocols and sustained political commitment.