Statement by Latvia at the UN General Assembly High-level meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response
“Fostering a multilateral and intergenerational approach to prevent, prepare for and respond to pandemics and public health emergencies, through the principles of equity and solidarity”
25 September 2026
Dear President of the General Assembly,
Dear Excellencies,
Pandemics have reminded us of a simple truth: health security is a shared responsibility. No country, however strong, can prevent overcome a global health threat on its own. Multilateral cooperation, solidarity, and equity are therefore not a political choice — they are a necessity.
We welcome the progress made since 2023, in particular the adoption of the WHO's Pandemic Agreement and the amendments to the International Health Regulations.
Latvia has completed the necessary national procedures to fully implement the amendments to the International Health Regulations, thereby strengthening both national and international preparedness for health threats.
As the declaration states - global society is still not sufficiently prepared. Global architecture remains fragmented, funding is insufficient, and access to medical countermeasures is unequal.
Latvia stresses that military security challenges create additional risks in terms of the spread of infectious diseases and other public health threats, which is why it is now essential to be able to identify these multiple risks and be prepared for them.
As COVID-19 showed: equitable and timely access to vaccines, diagnostics, and treatment must be at the center of our collective action. Pandemic preparedness does not begin at the moment of crisis, but in everyday work.
Recent experience shows that the One Health approach is becoming increasingly important, as human health is closely linked to processes in animal health and the environment.
Mr President,
Digital solutions and good data governance can save lives. Timely data exchange, interoperable systems, science-based surveillance, and reliable information help faster decision-making and protect the public more effectively. Digital transformation must be grounded in human rights, principles of trust, and equal opportunity – while never forgetting about cybersecurity considerations.
Morover, disinformation poses a grave threat to society. Infodemics and lack of health literacy create confusion, undermine trust in experts, and can hinder the effective implementation of public health measures, especially during pandemics.
Latvia reiterates the importance of gender equality in ensuring equity and solidarity, including in crisis situations. Women are significantly represented in the health sector, which makes their role in crisis preparedness and response highly important.
Last but not least - we emphasize the indispensable role the WHO plays within the global health architecture. I will state briefly but firmly - the mandate of the Organization must never be doubted or undermined. It can lead to serious consequences when the next pandemic, inevitably, approaches.
I Thank You.