According to a new Lancet COVID-19 Commission report, widespread global failings in the COVID-19 response led to millions of needless deaths and reversed progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in many countries.
The Lancet Commission on lessons for the future from the COVID-19 pandemic synthesises evidence from the first two years of the pandemic with new epidemiological and financial analyses to outline recommendations that will help end the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic emergency, lessen the impact of future health threats, and achieve long-term sustainable development.
The research warns that accomplishing these goals depends on a strengthened multilateralism centred on a reformed and fortified WHO, as well as investments and refined planning for national pandemic preparedness and health system strengthening, with specific focus to vulnerable populations. Improved technology and knowledge transfers for health commodities and international health funding are also crucial initiatives.
The Commission is the culmination of two years of effort by 28 world-leading experts in public policy, international governance, epidemiology, vaccinology, economics, international finance, sustainability, and mental health, and consultations with over 100 other contributors to 11 global task teams.