evidence: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed shortcomings in pandemic preparedness and response in countries around the world. The pandemic accord and recent amendments to the existing International Health Regulations (IHR) are aimed at improving future responses to pandemics. The work and negotiations on both the accord and the IHR amendments have been led and are decided by WHO Member States, which comprise all members of the United Nations (except Liechtenstein), the Cook Islands, and Niue.