Over two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a critical need for the international community to refocus and prioritize investments in resilient health systems that can prevent and respond to infectious disease threats. Global health security is a global public good – it is in the world’s best interest to improve cooperation and preparedness against emerging health threats, as pandemic-potential pathogens spread in an increasingly interconnected world.
CGD experts are working to assess global pandemic preparedness and response, and in particular the role and effectiveness of global institutions and countries in advancing global health security. We are looking at how outbreaks will and are affecting low- and middle-income countries—including in Africa—with already-stretched health systems. Drawing upon our work on strengthening health systems and lessons from the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, we’ve presented ideas and proposals on how global institutions and countries can better respond to COVID-19 and prepare for future health risks.