The WHO’s Dilemma in Global Outbreak Response
According to this CSS Analysis by Jan Thiel, there is nothing exceptional about the World Health Organization’s (WHO) alleged pro-China bias during the coronavirus pandemic. Chronic underfunding and a toothless mandate often leave the UN agency with political appeasement as its only means of ensuring the cooperation of an affected country. In spite of this, the necessary reforms are not in the pipeline.
Since its foundation in 1948, the WHO has played a leading role in global health issues. As such, it is more than just an aid organization for developing countries. Headquartered in Geneva, this specialized agency within the UN system supports the healthcare systems of its 194 member states with the development of international standards and evidence-based guidelines for medicine and health policy, amongst other things. The WHO also monitors global health trends, promotes research and development in areas that the pharmaceutical industry neglect for economic reasons, and provides emergency relief during natural disasters.