Australia’s Sovereignty remains unaffected by WHO Health Treaty, reassures Global Health Ambassador
The Australian Ambassador for Global Health, Dr. Lucas de Toca, categorically stated that the proposed pandemic treaty does not address gain of function research.
Dr. de Toca reassured that Australia’s sovereignty will not be affected by the health treaty proposed by the World Health Organisation.
During Senate estimates on June 4, Mr. de Toca made this known.
When asked by Labor Senator Varun Ghosh about the impact on Australia’s sovereignty by the International Health Regulations (IHR) or the proposed treaty, Dr. de Toca responded with a firm “no.”
He explained that as a member state organization, the WHO’s operations are determined by its member countries.
Dr. de Toca mentioned that the amendments to the IHR are legally binding only if a country chooses to adopt them.
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He further elaborated that countries have a 12-month period to ratify the instrument or communicate their non-participation.
Dr. de Toca emphasized that Australia’s sovereignty will not be compromised but rather strengthened through active engagement in a system that prioritizes global health security.
The World Health Assembly confirmed the amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) on June 1, as per (pdf).
Dr. de Toca, representing Australia at the 77th World Health Assembly, clarified that the proposed pandemic treaty does not address gain of function research.
