Australian Parliamentarians Unite In Opposition To WHO Pandemic Treaty Reforms

In a bold display of political solidarity, fourteen elected officials from Australia have joined forces to voice their concerns over the World Health Organization's (WHO) proposed pandemic treaty reforms. The group, comprising cross-party members, penned a letter to the Prime Minister, urging the Australian government to reconsider its stance on the WHO's proposed amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) and the so-called "WHO Pandemic Treaty." This comes as the global health organization seeks to strengthen international cooperation in response to future health crises.

The letter, spearheaded by Senator Alex Antic and Senator Pauline Hanson among others, was delivered to the Prime Minister's office on May 14, 2024. It reflects growing apprehension among some Australian lawmakers that the proposed reforms could potentially undermine national sovereignty. The signatories argue that the amendments could transform the WHO from an advisory body into a supranational health authority with significant implications for national decision-making autonomy.

This development comes at a critical juncture, just days before the World Health Assembly is set to convene and potentially vote on the proposed treaty. The signatories demand a meeting with the Prime Minister to discuss their concerns and urge the government to walk away from the proposed amendments. They argue that the reforms could have far-reaching implications for Australia's ability to independently manage its health policies and responses.

The WHO has been working towards a new global pandemic accord since December 2021, following the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim is to create a framework for improved global cooperation in preventing and responding to future pandemics. However, critics like the Australian parliamentarians argue that the proposed changes could lead to a perpetual state of emergency, with the WHO gaining the power to impose lockdowns and enforce treatments without national consent.

The debate surrounding the WHO's pandemic treaty has been contentious, with critics and proponents offering differing views on the potential impact on national sovereignty. The Australian parliamentarians' letter adds to the growing chorus of opposition from various quarters, including from within the United States and other countries.

As the date for the World Health Assembly approaches, the global health community and the public at large await the outcome of these discussions. The Australian parliamentarians' stance underscores the complex balancing act between global cooperation and national sovereignty in the face of future health crises.

---

Travis

contributor

Stay Connected with Weekly Crier!

Follow us on Twitter: 
http://x.com/weeklycrier
Get inspired on Instagram:
http://instagram.com/weeklycrier
​Drop us a line at: 
[email protected]