Against this backdrop, WHO emphasized the importance of translating the hard-earned lessons of COVID-19 into stronger systems, smarter cooperation, and faster, more equitable response mechanisms. With 194 Member States currently negotiating the final annex of the WHO Pandemic Agreement – focused on pathogen access and benefit sharing – WHO urged governments to seize next week’s discussions as a pivotal opportunity to move this crucial piece forward. Global unity, the Organization stressed, remains the backbone of effective preparedness.
The evaluation aligns closely with WHO’s commitment to continuous learning, building on earlier assessments such as the Inter-Agency Humanitarian Evaluation of COVID-19 and global health cluster reviews. Together, these bodies of evidence highlight the need for more resilient systems, better coordination, and stronger application of scientific and operational lessons on the ground.
COVID-19 exposed deep vulnerabilities – within health systems, supply chains, governance structures, and public trust. The evaluation reinforces four essential principles for the future: solidarity, equity, science, and sustained preparedness. Strong primary health care, early detection, transparent reporting, and equitable access to vaccines and diagnostics are not optional; they are the foundations of global health security.
The launch of this evaluation serves as a powerful reminder and a collective call to learn, collaborate and ensure the world is better prepared for the next pandemic.
