The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on humanity, leaving millions dead and causing immense harm. Despite three years of collective global efforts, the World Health Organization (WHO) recently stated that the virus is still a major threat.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres pointed out that the pandemic has caused serious economic damage and many healthcare systems are struggling. Moreover, many children have not been able to receive their regular vaccinations.
The UN chief emphasized that when the next pandemic comes, we must be better prepared. He called for an end to the injustice of wealthy countries monopolizing and controlling pandemic healthcare supplies, and ensuring that everyone has access to vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics.
Mr. Guterres also proposed to reinforce WHO’s authority and financing, to improve virus surveillance, and to make Universal Health Coverage a reality. He noted that the High-level meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response, held in September, had resulted in a political declaration which supports the negotiations for a pandemic accord.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that this agreement would establish a worldwide system for responding to future disease outbreaks. Mr. Guterres urged countries to create a strong and comprehensive accord, with an emphasis on equity. He concluded that by taking the lessons of COVID-19 to heart, we can build a fairer and healthier world for all.