INTERIM STATEMENT — OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL COORDINATION
Following the WHO declaration of a global health emergency in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with approximately 246 confirmed cases and 80 deaths, the United Nations has convened an emergency session of the Transnational Crisis Response Committee (TCRC). The primary agenda items have been established as follows: determining which nations will attend in person versus via secure videoconference, resolving a scheduling conflict with the G7 summit on agricultural subsidies, and finalising catering specifications for the three-day negotiation session.
The outbreak, which does not meet the technical threshold for pandemic classification, has nonetheless prompted what officials describe as “an unprecedented mobilisation of diplomatic resources.” The distinction between a health emergency and a pandemic emergency has been noted as significant for purposes of travel restrictions, though the epidemiological difference remains subject to ongoing technical review.
In a statement released this morning, the Office of Protocol and Procedures confirmed that preliminary discussions regarding potential travel bans have been scheduled for June 3rd, pending confirmation from the Italian delegation regarding their availability in early June. The French delegation has requested that any decisions be postponed until after their domestic parliamentary recess. The Japanese representative has indicated that a decision framework cannot be established until all parties have reviewed the WHO’s technical classification documents, which are currently being translated into fifteen languages.
The question of whether travel restrictions should apply to nationals from the DRC, neighbouring countries, or merely individuals who have visited specific health facilities remains under active consideration by the Subcommittee on Epidemiological Boundary Definitions. A working group has been established to determine whether the committee should establish a working group, with findings expected by mid-July.
Meanwhile, the catering logistics have progressed more swiftly. The Swiss delegation has confirmed that neither meat nor dairy products will be served during the opening session, pending clarification on whether this applies to the welcome reception. The German delegation requires all meals to be certified gluten-free. The Brazilian delegation has requested that all beverages be sourced from suppliers with carbon-neutral certification. The American delegation has not yet responded to the dietary requirements form.
In a related development, the International Air Transport Association has begun preliminary discussions regarding which airports might implement enhanced screening protocols. These discussions are expected to conclude sometime in the autumn, at which point recommendations will be submitted for review by the relevant governmental authorities. No timeline has been established for implementation.
The WHO has reiterated that the outbreak represents a public health emergency of international concern, though this designation does not obligate member states to take immediate action. Rather, it establishes a framework within which member states may, at their discretion, undertake consultations regarding potential future measures.
The TCRC has scheduled its next meeting for May 31st, at which point a preliminary agenda for the June emergency summit will be circulated. Attendees are requested to confirm their participation by May 25th, allowing one week for the Secretariat to revise travel arrangements and catering estimates accordingly.
All parties have expressed their deep concern regarding the situation. The commitment to addressing this matter through established diplomatic channels remains unwavering. A press briefing is scheduled for June 1st, following the conclusion of the preliminary coordination meeting.