What? When? WHO’s New Year Resolution

If there’s ever a vote for the Best New Year Resolution of 2025, WHO’s oh-so-polite attempt to nudge China into sharing Covid data would surely take the crown and the tiara. It’s got all the ingredients of a New Year classic: ambition, persistence – and just the right dash of delusion. Five years after the pandemic flipped the world on its head, on Monday, who else but WHO solemnly declared that the information from China is a moral and scientific imperative to stop another pandemic. Well, thank you for letting us know. And best of luck. China – last not known for its Tiananmen transparency – of course, is still belting out its greatest hit: ‘We shared everything five years ago! Viral sequences, epidemic info, life hacks – you name it!’ WHO also promised to be better prepared for the next pandemic, a resolution that feels as sturdy as someone swearing to hit the gym while their treadmill remains the world’s priciest drying rack.

But, hey, a New Year is all about hope, right? Be happy that the UN body has a plan. Step 1: Get the data. Step 2: Figure out what to do with it. Step 3? Well, that’s WHO’s problem in the future. For now, of course, let’s all keep pretending this is the year it finally works. Truth be told, Chinese whispers are called Chinese whispers for a reason. As for WHO’s New Year resolution, let’s try to keep ours? Hmm?