Updates from and around WHO

Italy to leave IHR and WHO?  Shortly before the deadline, the Italian government officially rejected the World Health Organization’s (WHO) amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) concerning global pandemic management. Health Minister Orazio Schillaci notified WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus of Italy’s refusal, citing unacceptable infringements on national sovereignty and potential negative economic impacts. Supporters in the Italian parliament, particularly those from the right-wing coalition led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, praised the move as prioritizing national interests and resisting perceived external influence over health policy. Critics, including opposition figures, called the decision unreasonable and warned it could isolate Italy and restrict travel if a pandemic were declared. The action has sparked a broader national debate over sovereignty, international cooperation, and the legacy of Italy’s strict COVID-19 measures between 2020 and 2022.  From:  FAZ, 2025-07-21 (in German language):  Pandemiepolitik: Italien lehnt WHO-Vorschriften aus Souveränitätsgründen ab  Global ARI-update  In early July 2025, both flu (influenza)...