A new Red Cross report claims all countries are “dangerously unprepared” for the next pandemic. 

The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) says in the report that all nations should update their pandemic preparedness plans by year-end.

The IFRC’s new World Disasters Report 2022 says “all countries remain dangerously unprepared for future outbreaks” despite COVID-19 killing more people than any earthquake, drought or hurricane in history.

“The next pandemic could be just around the corner. If the experience of COVID-19 won't quicken our steps toward preparedness, what will?” asked Jagan Chapagain, secretary general of the IFRC.

“There will be no excuse for a continued lack of preparedness after having gone through three terrible years.”

The report called on countries to review their legislation to ensure it is in line with their pandemic preparedness plans by the end of 2023.

It also suggests adopting a new treaty and revised International Health Regulations by next year that would invest more in the readiness of local communities.

Countries are also encouraged to increase domestic health finance by 1 per cent of gross domestic product and global health finance by at least $15 billion per year, which Chapagain described as a “good investment to make”.

“The important thing is there has to be a political will to commit to that,” he said. 

“If it is there, it's possible.”

The full report is accessible here.