The human rights imperative: Why rights are central to pandemic preparedness and response
When it comes to pandemic preparedness and response, human rights cannot be an afterthought.
The HIV/AIDS pandemic remains a powerful example of the centrality of human rights. Rights-based strategies that centre community leadership, address stigma and dismantle structural barriers have saved lives and dramatically reduced infections. These approaches ensure no one is excluded, strengthening public health systems and fostering trust in health systems and services. When rights are violated - whether through discrimination, criminalization or stigma - key populations are driven away from essential services, deepening inequalities, increasing risks and undermining public health.
Unfortunately, a pushback on human rights, gender equality and civic space, coupled with rising HIV infections in several regions, threatens to undermine decades of progress. The 10-10-10 targets, adopted by countries in 2021, aim to dismantle the societal barriers that prevent access to essential HIV prevention and treatment services. Through the #Triple10Targets campaign, UNDP and partners are calling on leaders to seize the moment: the science to end AIDS exists, and communities are pushing governments to uphold rights, not barriers.
A rights-based approach, grounded in equity and inclusion, is not only critical for achieving an AIDS-free future but also for strengthening health systems capable of responding to future health threats. When the most vulnerable are protected, communities are healthier, safer and more resilient in the face of health emergencies.
The COVID-19 pandemic also reaffirmed that lesson. Countries that integrated human rights into their responses saw fewer deaths and quicker economic recoveries. UNDP continues to urge countries to adopt science and rights-based approaches in the face of health emergencies and protect the most vulnerable first.
Pandemic preparedness is more than just a matter of public health. As the deadline for Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals comes closer, the global community must commit to accelerating high-impact integrated actions that strengthen systems for health rooted in resilience, innovation and rights that ensure health for all.
The next health crisis is not a question of if, but when. The opportunity to create truly resilient and inclusive health systems better prepared to respond so that outbreaks don't become pandemics is within our reach, but only if we act with urgency and resolve. The lessons from HIV to COVID-19 are clear. Now is the time to apply them before the next pandemic strikes.