Pandemic preparedness and response in the EMR: adapting lessons learnt from pandemics for tomorrow

The Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) faces significant public health challenges due to the increasing frequency and impact of pandemics, natural disasters, and ongoing political instability. Despite progress in areas such as vaccination rates, surveillance, and laboratory capacities, gaps in pandemic preparedness persist, underscoring the need for comprehensive, multi-sectoral strategies. The Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET) organized a roundtable during its Eighth Regional Conference to examine key aspects of pandemic preparedness and response, focusing on lessons learned from recent health crises like COVID-19. The session highlighted critical themes, including the importance of sustainable investments in preparedness, addressing health workforce shortages, fostering multi-sectoral collaboration, and prioritizing equity. Panelists and participants emphasized the necessity of trust-building and community engagement as foundational elements for effective health interventions. Discussions also explored innovative frameworks, such as the WHO's Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative, which integrates adaptable and transmission-based approaches. The roundtable concluded with a call for stronger leadership, enhanced governance, and institutionalized learning mechanisms to ensure that lessons from past crises are effectively integrated into future strategies. By transitioning from reactive responses to proactive preparedness, the EMR can build resilient health systems capable of managing future public health emergencies and advancing regional and global health security.