Sign in Subscribe
Epidemics

Canada to Scrutinize WHO's Relationship with China Amid Criticism Over COVID-19 Response

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that Canada will continue to support the World Health Organization (WHO) despite criticism over its relationship with China and its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Trudeau emphasized that Ottawa will be asking hard questions about China's influence on the global public-health body. The WHO has faced intense scrutiny over its conduct, particularly its relationship with China, and the speed and transparency of its response to the pandemic. Trudeau expressed concerns that China's massive donation to the WHO could lead to undue influence over the organization's decision-making.

As the pandemic continues to spread globally, Canada and other countries are re-evaluating their relationship with the WHO. Trudeau's comments come on the heels of a resolution passed by dozens of countries calling for an independent review of the WHO's handling of the pandemic. China has stepped up its support for the WHO, pledging a donation of $2 billion to fight the pandemic.

The WHO has defended its actions, stating that it issued an alert in early January and warning against excessive measures that could interfere with international travel and trade. However, critics have accused the organization of being too China-centric and lacking transparency in its early response to the pandemic. Biden warns it will cut the $450 million yearly funding to the organization. At the same time, several Canadian public figures have been vocal in their criticism of China's handling of the pandemic.

Key Takeaways:

  • The World Health Organization (WHO) is facing intense scrutiny over its relationship with China and its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that Canada will continue to support the WHO, but will be asking hard questions about China's influence on the organization.
  • China has pledged a donation of $2 billion to the WHO to fight the pandemic.
  • The WHO has defended its actions, stating that it issued an alert in early January and warning against excessive measures that could interfere with international travel and trade.
  • Several Canadian public figures have criticized China's handling of the pandemic, accusing it of concealing information and suppressing whistle-blowing scientists.
  • The United States has threatened to cut its $450 million yearly funding to the WHO unless it makes significant changes.
  • The WHO's Director-General has defended the organization's role and said it will continue to provide strategic leadership in the fight against the pandemic.

Statistics:

  • Canada relies heavily on the WHO's advice for making decisions on public health emergencies, such as travel bans.
  • Over 100 countries have been required to explain their decision-making process regarding travel bans, which was advised against by the WHO until later in the pandemic.
  • The WHO receives funding from over 194 member states, with the United States contributing $450 million annually and China contributing $38 million annually.
  • The WHO has been accused of being too China-centric, with critics warning that China's massive donation could lead to undue influence over the organization's decision-making.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic has spread globally, with over [insert number] cases reported worldwide.

Sources:

  • The Globe and Mail, 2020
  • Reuters, 2020
  • The Canadian American Business Council, 2020
  • The European Union, 2020
  • World Health Organization (WHO), 2020

Read more