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2020 was a devastating year for global health. A previously unknown virus\u00a0raced around the world, rapidly emerging as one of its\u00a0top killers, laying bare the inadequacies of health systems. Today,\u00a0health services\u00a0in all regions are struggling to both tackle\u00a0COVID-19, and provide people with vital\u00a0care.<\/p>\n
In another blow,\u00a0the pandemic\u00a0threatens to set back hard-won global health progress achieved over the past two decades – in fighting infectious diseases,\u00a0for example,\u00a0and improving maternal and child health.<\/p>\n
So in 2021,\u00a0countries around the world will need to continue battle COVID-19 (albeit with the knowledge that effective tools are evolving). They will need to\u00a0move swiftly to repair and reinforce their health systems\u00a0so they can deliver these tools, and to address the key societal and environmental issues that result in some sections of the population suffering so much more than others.<\/p>\n
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WHO\u00a0and its partners\u00a0will\u00a0be at their side. We will work to help countries strengthen preparedness for pandemics and other emergencies. We will remind them of the importance of\u00a0bringing\u00a0countries together\u00a0and of involving the whole government, not just the health sector. And we will support them in building strong health systems and healthy populations\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Here are 10 ways we will do this:<\/p>\n
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