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[EXCLUSIVE] New IGWG Text: Strong Obligations To Share Pathogen Information, Lists Technology Transfer & Licensing As "Optional" Benefits

By Priti Patnaik
[EXCLUSIVE] New IGWG Text: Strong Obligations To Share Pathogen Information, Lists Technology Transfer & Licensing As "Optional" Benefits
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Newsletter Edition #149 [Treaty Talks]

Readers,

In this edition, we bring you a quick update on new text proposals on the Pathogen Access Benefit Sharing (PABS) System being negotiated at the WHO.

The Bureau of the Intergovernmental Working Group (IGWG) shared the latest version of the text that will be discussed in the forthcoming formal negotiations scheduled in Geneva for March 23rd-28th 2026.

We present key takeaways, the action in Geneva, and excerpts from the latest version that is being workshopped with countries.

We believe this will be timely and useful for anyone tracking these negotiations.

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More soon.

Priti

Priti Patnaik, Founder & Publisher, Geneva Health Files

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New IGWG Text: Stronger Obligations To Share Pathogen Information, Technology Transfer & Licensing As "Optional" Benefits

Key takeaways:

  • Both "sides" appear to remain locked-in, in their respective positions as per our reporting during this inter-sessional period. Developed countries appear to be keen on limiting benefits to the access to medical products. Traceability, and licensing, among others, continue to be priorities for developing countries.
  • Informal consultations, and retreats, among groups of delegations this week in Geneva.
  • Recent communication from the IGWG bureau pushes for March meeting as the final week of the negotiations.
  • The latest version of the text circulated on March 9, 2026 likely to be the text for consideration for formal negotiations, according to diplomatic sources.
  • New language in the latest text include proposals on onward sharing, unique persistent identifiers, optional technology transfer, mandatory annual monetary contributions, among issues that could potentially be contentious for countries.