A significant milestone in global health preparedness was achieved as the World Health Organization (WHO) recently coordinated a two-day simulation involving over 15 countries and numerous health agencies. This exercise, known as Polaris, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of WHO's Global Health Emergency Corps (GHEC). The initiative seeks to enhance national emergency workforces, streamline expert deployment, and foster international collaboration. Through a fictional scenario of a worldwide virus outbreak, participating nations tested their response capabilities under realistic conditions.

The success of this simulation relied heavily on the active participation of various countries and organizations. Nations such as Canada, Colombia, Denmark, Ethiopia, Germany, and others engaged through their national health coordination frameworks. These entities worked collaboratively to share vital information, align policies, and activate appropriate responses. Regional and global health bodies, including Africa CDC, European CDC, UNICEF, and other established networks, played crucial roles in supporting country-led initiatives. With over 350 health experts involved, the exercise underscored the importance of trust, accountability, and effective communication in managing health crises.

As demonstrated by Exercise Polaris, the world is better equipped when countries lead and partners collaborate. According to Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, no nation can confront future pandemics alone. The event highlighted that global cooperation is not merely feasible but indispensable. Costa Rica’s Vice Minister of Health, Dr Mariela Marín, emphasized the need for efficient inter-agency coordination during emergencies. Furthermore, Dr Soha Albayat from Qatar noted the significance of building trust before crises arise. Such proactive measures ensure alignment and coordination in cross-border emergency planning. In a period where multilateral efforts face challenges, Polaris reaffirmed that health remains a shared global concern requiring collective action.