WHO says next pandemic could be closer than we think as 800 health centres unite

By Chioma Obinna

The World Health Organisation, WHO, on Thursday warned that the world may be edging closer to another major pandemic, even as it strengthens one of the largest global health networks ever assembled to confront such threats.
At a historic Global Forum, representatives from more than 800 WHO Collaborating Centres across over 80 countries gathered to confront rising health risks and reshape how the world responds to future emergencies.
The meeting brought together leading scientists, public health experts, and researchers who pointed to a rapidly changing global environment marked by climate pressures, conflict, and fragile health systems. They warned that these factors are creating conditions where new diseases can emerge and spread faster than before.
Despite these concerns, the forum ended on a note of renewed commitment, with participants agreeing on the need for stronger, more flexible partnerships that move beyond rigid research structures toward more coordinated and responsive global action.
The Director General of WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: “WHO’s network of collaborating centres is an immensely valuable but under-utilised resource for global health. It brings together the world’s leading institutions to translate evidence into action to support countries, strengthen health systems, and protect populations.”
He described the network as a key driver of international cooperation and a reminder of what can be achieved when countries align behind science and shared goals.
The Collaborating Centres network, first established following a 1949 World Health Assembly decision, was designed to help WHO draw on global expertise rather than build separate research systems. Over the past 77 years, it has grown into a vast system of universities, laboratories, and technical institutions that support global health work.
Today, the network plays a central role in shaping global health standards, advancing research, and helping countries translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions that save lives.
At the forum, WHO also announced plans to expand its global collaboration through new research structures, including Collaborative Open Research Consortia. These networks are designed to bring together thousands of scientists worldwide to accelerate innovation and preparedness.
A major focus of the initiative is preparing for what experts call “Disease X,” a term used to describe an unknown pathogen that could trigger the next pandemic. The goal is to speed up the development of vaccines, diagnostics, and treatments before such a threat emerges.
“We are facing a time of growing global health challenges,” said Sylvie Briand. “The global network of WHO collaborating centres represents an extraordinary concentration of scientific expertise and public health leadership.”
She stressed that collaboration is now essential, not optional, especially as the world faces increasing health threats and limited resources.
Participants also raised concerns about declining global health funding, warning that reduced investment could weaken preparedness efforts and allow local outbreaks to escalate into global crises.
The forum emphasised that coordinated international action is critical, particularly in an interconnected world where health threats can spread quickly across borders.
The meeting formed part of activities linked to World Health Day 2026 under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science.”
WHO said the forum marks a turning point in global health collaboration, with a stronger push toward unity, innovation, and shared responsibility in tackling future health threats.
The organisation has announced that the next Global Forum will take place in 2027, as it continues efforts to strengthen global preparedness and ensure the world is better equipped for the next major health emergency.