Public health implications of implementation of the Nagoya Protocol

The Nagoya Protocol is an access and benefit-sharing instrument that governs the international sharing of genetic resources. Implementation of this treaty has implications for public health including, in particular, the timely response to infectious disease outbreaks. There are opportunities to advance both public health and the principles of fair and equitable sharing of benefits.

WHO – in close collaboration with the Convention on Biological Diversity and other international organizations and stakeholders – is working to ensure that public health work advances in harmony with the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol. This page contains information on WHO’s ongoing efforts in this regard.