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International Health Regulations

Core capacities: IHR, Annex 1a and relevant articles

Based on the provisions of Annex 1 of the IHR, a group of technical experts identified the core capacities listed below for the purpose of monitoring the progress in IHR implementation:

  1. national legislation, policy and financing
  2. coordination at national level and the communication of National IHR Focal Points, both globally and nationally
  3. surveillance
  4. response
  5. preparedness
  6. appropriate communication of risks
  7. human resources
  8. adequate laboratory services

In order to reflect the multi-sectoral nature of IHR, capacities related to the following five hazards have also been proposed:

  • infectious
  • zoonotic
  • food safety-related
  • chemical
  • radio-nuclear

Indicators for monitoring the development of IHR core capacities were also proposed. The indicator framework builds on tools also used for assessment of IHR Core capacities by States Parties.

Determining the fulfilment of national IHR core capacity requirements

State Parties are required to determine whether they have met or will meet the national IHR core capacity by 15 June 2012.

If not yet in place State Parties can seek for an extension of up to 2 years.
Extension means thereby that the development of national core capacities has not yet been completed, e. g. that specific areas need further improvement.

If seeking for extension, State Parties should develop and submit to WHO an implementation plan for these specific areas.