Background and Origin of the WHO IGWG
The Intergovernmental Working Group on Public Health, Innovation and Intellectual Property (IGWG) was established in 2006 by the World Health Organization (WHO). The IGWG is tasked with preparing a global strategy and plan of action on essential health research to address conditions affecting developing countries disproportionately.
The IGWG is tasked with examining 8 elements of a draft plan of action:
- prioritizing research and development needs
- promoting research and development
- building and improving innovative capacity
- improving delivery and access
- ensuring sustainable financing mechanisms;
- establishing monitoring and reporting systems
- transfer of technology
- management of intellectual property
On July 31, 2007, the IGWG released an initial draft of its plan outlining goals and possible activities to be included in WHO resolutions from the IGWG. The WHO will soon open an internet portal for stakeholders to submit comments on the IGWG draft strategy in electronic format.
In August, September and October 2007, the six regional WHO offices will be hosting IGWG consultation meetings in their respective regions to discuss the draft strategy and plan with government representatives and other stakeholders. The IGWG draft will also likely be the subject of discussion at regular annual gatherings of the regional offices.
In early November 2007, the IGWG will have its annual meeting in Geneva. During this meeting, government delegates will negotiate the specific elements discussed in the draft.
The IGWG will submit a final report with official recommendations to the 61st World Health Assembly in May 2008.
The IGWG process can be an important opportunity for WHO member countries and global R&D advocates to address fundamental developing-world health issues such as:
- Promoting R&D
- Prioritizing where additional R&D is needed
- Encouraging voluntary technology transfers as appropriate
- Ensuring sustainable financing mechanisms
- Delivery and access to medicines
