146th WHO EB Agenda Item 15.4: The public health implications of implementation of the Nagoya Protocol – Delivered by Dr. Sadre Alam, First Secretary
Thank you Chair,
India notes the WHO interim report pursuant to decision WHA 72 (13) providing an update on the current pathogen-sharing practices and arrangements, the implementation of access and benefit sharing measures as well as the potential public health outcomes and other implications of the Nagoya Protocol.
Mr. Chair,
Currently, the focus of the review being carried out by WHO seems to be the identification of laws and practices that impede the timely sharing of pathogens, leaving aside the ease and legislation around access and benefit sharing. There is a vast diversity in ABS legislation, but India believes that the survey could be used as a tool to lead to possible harmonization of national laws and regulations, while respecting diversity. In this regard, the survey should address the issue of current approaches and practices of benefit sharing, and should not be limited only to the aspect of timely sharing of influenza virus samples.
Additionally, use of genetic sequencing information should be examined as part of the review of national ABS laws and regulations. India urges the WHO to clarify its position on the issues related to Genetic Sequence Data (GSD), as well as the nature and modalities of pathogen sharing that is already taking place under the auspices of the WHO.
Mr. Chair,
WHO already has significant experience on access and benefit-sharing under the PIP Framework, recognized as a successful instrument that contributes to global health. WHO may also consider whether other specialized instruments modelled on the PIP Framework should be developed consistent with the objectives of the CBD and the Nagoya Protocol.
Thank you.
