Work

Two rounds of the Pandemic Fund at the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region: progress, lessons learned, challenges, and way forward

Year: 2025

Type: editorial

Abstract: World Health Organization (WHO) played an important role in supporting the Member States of the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) apply for awards from the Pandemic Fund - a vital source of funding for pandemic preparedness and response. The aim of this commentary is to reflect the contributions of WHO EMR during the first two funding rounds of the Pandemic Fund, while highlighting the lessons learned, and addressing the ongoing challenges faced across the region. As EMR Member States continue to build and strengthen their health security capacities, WHO's involvement has catalyzed the improvement of early warning systems, laboratory capacity, and workforce development. However, challenges remain, including sustainability, enhancing regional cooperation, the widespread state fragility, and multiple conflicts across the region.

Source: Global Health Action

DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2025.2475596

Authors: Mohamed Elhakim, Amgad Elkholy, Mary Stephen, Richard John Brennan, Ahmed Zouiten

Institutions: World Health Organization, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, World Health Organization - Egypt

Language: English

Topic: Global Security and Public Health

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Partnerships for the goals, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,509