As we mark six years since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), the critical question arises: Is the world better prepared for the next pandemic? The declaration of the PHEIC in early 2020 signaled a stark global alert. While the emergency status was lifted in May 2023, the ramifications of COVID-19 continue to resonate worldwide.
According to WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the world is better prepared in some aspects but still faces significant challenges. “The pandemic taught all of us many lessons – especially that global threats demand a global response,” he stated at the recent 158th session of the WHO Executive Board. “Solidarity is the best immunity.” This sentiment underscores both the progress made and the fragility of that progress.
Significant strides have been taken to enhance pandemic preparedness. Following the lessons learned from COVID-19, WHO, member states, and various partners have initiated several advancements in public health strategies. For instance, the historic WHO Pandemic Agreement was adopted in May 2025, creating a comprehensive framework for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. This agreement aims to enhance global health security and equity, reflecting a robust commitment to multilateralism.
member states are currently negotiating the Pathogen Access and Benefits Sharing (PABS) system, which is set to be a critical component of the Pandemic Agreement. The adoption of this system is expected to facilitate better management of pathogens and foster equitable access to vaccines and treatments.
Other notable developments include:
- International Health Regulations (IHR): Amendments to strengthen national capacities came into effect in September 2025.
- The Pandemic Fund: Co-founded by WHO and the World Bank, it has provided over $1.2 billion in grants, catalyzing an additional $11 billion for 67 projects across 98 countries to bolster health infrastructure.
- AI-Driven Intelligence: WHO’s Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence has upgraded its Epidemic Intelligence from Open Sources (EIOS) system, now assisting over 110 countries in detecting and responding to health threats more swiftly.
- Genomic Surveillance: Global capacities have surged, with more than 110 countries enhancing surveillance to track potential pandemic pathogens.
- WHO BioHub: This initiative has coordinated sample shipments to various laboratories and has acquired numerous virus variants for research and response efforts.
- Vaccine Production: Initiatives like the mRNA technology transfer hub in Cape Town are accelerating the local production of vaccines and treatments.
Despite these advancements, the gains achieved remain precarious. The shift in global funding priorities from health to defense raises concerns about the sustainability of these improvements. Investing in pandemic preparedness is essential, not just for protecting lives but also for safeguarding economies and stabilizing societies. The WHO emphasizes that pandemics are, fundamentally, national security threats.
The call to action from WHO is clear: nations must prioritize pandemic preparedness and avoid complacency. The upcoming WHO Executive Board meeting will be pivotal in shaping the future of global health collaboration and accountability. It is crucial for governments to recognize that pathogens do not respect borders; collaboration across sectors and nations is vital for effective health security.
Recent responses to outbreaks, such as Ebola and Marburg, illustrate the progress made at national levels, supported by WHO. Previous Ebola outbreaks, which resulted in devastating losses in West Africa, have been contained more swiftly in recent instances, showcasing improved public health infrastructure and response mechanisms.
As the world navigates these complex challenges, continuous vigilance and proactive measures are essential. WHO’s commitment to supporting member states in enhancing their pandemic preparedness remains resolute. The time to strengthen these systems is now, before the next pandemic strikes.
while there is a sense of progress in global pandemic readiness, the journey is far from complete. The international community must function collaboratively to ensure that lessons learned from COVID-19 are implemented effectively and that the gains made are not only sustained but built upon. Public health is a shared responsibility, and the stakes could not be higher.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. If you’re looking for more insights or have specific questions regarding public health, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
