Learning from the Past – Pandemic Readiness in 2025

Abstract

Background - The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the deep vulnerabilities within global health systems, sparking an unprecedented wave of investment and reform in pandemic preparedness. This narrative review explores progress from 2020 to 2025 across critical areas such as healthcare infrastructure, PPE manufacturing, disease surveillance, vaccine equity, workforce resilience, governance, and risk communication. High-income countries have made notable strides in expanding surge capacity and digital health systems, while low- and middle-income nations continue to grapple with fragile infrastructure, unequal access to medical tools, and persistent workforce challenges. Global initiatives like COVAX and the Pandemic Fund have improved the distribution of vital resources, yet political friction and operational hurdles continue to limit their full potential. Innovative approaches such as the One Health framework and regional vaccine production hubs are beginning to reshape the global preparedness landscape. Still, significant implementation gaps remain. To truly strengthen resilience ahead of future health emergencies, the world must commit to a unified legal framework, sustained long-term financing, and equitable access to innovation for all.