Pandemic funds

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Pakistan's launch of an $18.7 million project under the global Pandemic Fund marks a promising step toward fortifying its fragile health security systems. The project, backed by the WHO, FAO and ADB, is commendable for its adoption of the "One Health" approach — a model that acknowledges the deep interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health. In a country where zoonotic diseases are on the rise and antimicrobial resistance is becoming a silent crisis, such integration is necessary.

By setting up One Health Units nationwide, Pakistan is attempting to move beyond its traditionally reactive stance on public health crises. These units are expected to enhance disease surveillance and strengthen early warning systems, all while promoting data sharing across sectors. The focus on embedded governance frameworks and workforce training is particularly noteworthy, suggesting a departure from short-term project thinking toward system-wide resilience. However, ambition must meet accountability.

Historically, funds for public health have either remained under-utilised or suffered from bureaucratic inertia. Pakistan's healthcare infrastructure, especially at district and provincial levels, remains underdeveloped and underfunded — a gap this initiative must directly confront. Moreover, for One Health Units to succeed, collaboration across ministries — of health, agriculture and climate — must be institutionalised, not limited to symbolic presence at launch events. Without clear inter-ministerial coordination and proper follow-through, this effort risks becoming yet another pilot project that fails to scale.

This pandemic fund offers Pakistan a rare opportunity to strengthen its national health security before the next crisis arrives. But it must be treated as more than a donor-driven initiative. Transparency and government commitment are essential if Pakistan truly wants to future-proof itself against the crises of tomorrow.