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There's a global pandemic treaty that's signed -- and in 'limbo.' What's the holdup?

Sep 25, 2026 · Jonathan Lambert

Originally published by NPR News Read the original

There's a global pandemic treaty that's signed -- and in 'limbo.' What's the holdup?
These letters are part of the genetic sequence of the novel coronavirus that sparked the global pandemic. A new treaty aims to promote the sharing of such information among nations for any future virus that threatens the planet.
These letters are part of the genetic sequence of the novel coronavirus that sparked the global pandemic. A new treaty aims to promote the sharing of such information among nations for any future virus that threatens the planet.

The treaty aims to help the countries of the world prepare for — and defeat — any future pandemic. Why hasn't it gone into effect?

(Image credit: Smith Collection/Gado/Gado)

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