A new report released during the 79th World Health Assembly warned that increasing geopolitical tensions
May 18, 2026: A report by the Global Preparedness Monitoring Board has warned that infectious disease outbreaks are becoming more frequent and more damaging, with countries less prepared to recover from future pandemics. The report, titled A World on the Edge: Priorities for a Pandemic-Resilient Future, was launched alongside the 79th World Health Assembly and said global investments in preparedness have failed to keep pace with rising risks.
The report reviewed major international health emergencies over the past decade, including COVID-19, Ebola and mpox outbreaks. It found that equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics and treatments has worsened, with low-income countries receiving mpox vaccines even later than COVID-19 vaccines during recent outbreaks. The report also warned that pandemics continue to damage trust in governments, democratic institutions and social stability.
The board stressed that the next global pandemic could strike a world that is more divided, indebted and politically fragmented than before. It called on governments to strengthen international cooperation, improve equitable access to life-saving medicines and establish stronger monitoring systems for future threats. The report also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in health preparedness, while cautioning that poor governance could deepen inequalities during future crises.