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During the course of the year, the UK convened four plenary meetings of the Global Partnership Working Group (GPWG) and numerous meetings of the four Sub-Working Groups.   I am disappointed that circumstances prevented the hosting of any in-person events,  but I believe that we made the most of the advantages presented by a virtual format.  We look forward to the resumption of in-person events and the opportunity to meet you face-to-face once more.  

During our Presidency, the UK sought to elevate the profile of the GP internationally, drive focused programmes and implement institutional change. Of particular note was the Africa Biosecurity Signature Initiative, which demonstrated the value of collective action and laid the foundation for effective collaboration with African partners and others. This has included hosting a high-profile  conference, attended by South African Ministers, creation of a new mechanism to enhance external engagement - the Dialogue Partnership with the Africa Centre for Disease Control - and development of a major project to strengthen the BTWC in Africa.   Other notable achievements included raising the profile of HEU minimisation and consideration of the impacts of COVID-19 on resilience; laying the platform for further work to strengthen capability in export controls;  promotion of UNSCR 1540 and proliferation finance; and further assistance to the OPCW through support for key programmes.   On the institutional side, the Presidency strengthened the matchmaking process, created core briefing material to help with outreach, and implemented tangible changes to better recognise gender equality.  

We are proud of the work Global Partnership members have achieved in 2021. We look forward to handing the baton to Germany for their Presidency in 2022, and to supporting them as we have been so ably supported this year.  

Sarah Price

UK President of the Global Partnership 2021

Dear Friends,

As we reach the end of the UK’S Presidency of the Global Partnership (GP), I wanted to share reflections on the year just gone, look ahead to 2022 and express thanks. It is hard to believe how quickly time has passed since twelve months ago when the UK was busy preparing for the 2021 Presidency. Although sad that the UK Presidency is nearly over, I am delighted that the GP continued to add value in many areas.  This is all the more pleasing, given the continued restrictions of Covid-19 on GP activities.  Success would not have been possible without the engagement of GP members and the wider community. So on behalf of the UK Presidency, I would like to thank you for your contributions this year, be that your time, expertise, energy or financial resources. I would particularly like to express my gratitude to the United States and Canada for their immense support before and throughout our Presidency.