Background papers

A Terms of Reference for the Global Health Threats Council proposed by The Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response

A report of the testimony the Independent Panel received from those at the front lines of the response, and how it shaped our recommendations.

This background paper, accompanying the Independent Panel’s main report, describes the economic impact of COVID-19, May 2021.

This background paper, published to accompany the Independent Panel’s main report, describes the importance of and impact of community engagement in the COVID-19 response.

This background paper, published to accompany the Independent Panel’s main report, describes the successes and challenges in accessing medical countermeasures, May 2021.

This chronology provides detailed facts on the emergence of COVID-19, and national government, WHO and other stakeholder responses. It is based on published literature, information provided by stakeholders including the WHO, interviews and media report. It is current as of May 2021.

This background paper, published to accompany the Independent Panel’s main report, describes WHO’s historical and current functions as they related to outbreaks and the COVID-19 pandemic. May 2021.

This background paper, published to accompany The Independent Panel’s main report, describes the financing for pandemic preparedness and response, it’s strengths and shortcomings, and potential financing for the future. May 2021.

This background paper, published to accompany the Independent Panel’s main report, examines relevant treaties and how they might be a model for a future pandemic treaty, and how the International Health Regulations might be reformed for the future, May 2021.