The World Health Organization (WHO) recently held its 3rd Annual Partners Meeting of the interim Medical Countermeasures Network (i-MCM-Net) in Istanbul, Türkiye, from September 30 to October 1, 2025. This important gathering brought together approximately 85 participants from 30 organizations, including regional bodies, United Nations agencies, international development partners, academia, civil society, and the private sector.
The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration to enhance timely and equitable access to medical countermeasures (MCMs) such as vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics. These efforts aim to better prepare countries for future public health emergencies in an increasingly complex global health landscape. Participants underscored the necessity of shared responsibility in preparedness, emphasizing that sustained collaboration across sectors and regions is essential.
Key Achievements and Future Directions
A highlight of the meeting was the announcement that, through the mpox Access and Allocation Mechanism, over 1.6 million mpox vaccine doses have been distributed to 13 countries. This achievement illustrates how the i-MCM-Net fosters strong global partnerships that translate into concrete impacts at the country level. In addressing the need for timely access to vital health products, the i-MCM-Net serves as a crucial mechanism while member states continue to negotiate the Pandemic Agreement annex.
During the two-day event, participants examined challenges and proposed solutions throughout the MCM value chain. Key areas of discussion included fast-tracked research and development, scalable manufacturing, emergency supply chains, integrated delivery systems, and sustainable financing for health products. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that innovations in vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics lead to equitable access for all, particularly during health crises.
Commitment to Priority Actions
The meeting concluded with a unified commitment to advance 20 priority actions over the next 12 months. These actions will be integrated into an operational plan, which will be co-developed by the i-MCM-Net Secretariat and its partners. This plan is designed to enhance collaboration and accelerate progress across the MCM value chain.
As the world grapples with an evolving health security landscape, the i-MCM-Net remains a vital mechanism for translating shared commitments into actionable steps. The goal is clear: to ensure no region is left behind and that every country has timely and equitable access to life-saving MCMs in response to the next public health emergency.
In summary, the 3rd Annual i-MCM-Net Meeting highlights the collaborative spirit and determination of global partners to enhance health security. Through strengthened partnerships and a focus on practical actions, the WHO and its allies are working towards a future where equitable access to essential health products is a reality for all.
