In The International Journal of Health Planning and Management, Resolve to Save Lives argues that the amendments to World Health Organization’s International Health Regulations (WHO IHR)—especially the emphasis on multisectoral coordination and strengthening subnational capacities— offer an important opportunity for countries to bolster their public health systems. As demonstrated by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical for national legal frameworks to include a coordinating authority and ensure strong capacities at local levels. Adopted at the national level, these legal reforms can make it easier for countries to prevent, detect and respond to health emergencies, improving health security worldwide.
