Corruption in South Asia’s healthcare systems is more than a governance issue. From manipulated procurement and bribery to substandard medicines and fraudulent healthcare practices, corruption is putting public health and lives at risk.

Two years into COVID-19, Dr Sunoor Verma reflects on what the pandemic revealed about global health governance, health systems, leadership, WHO, regional cooperation and the unequal relationship between high- and low-income countries.

The World Health Organization plays a critical role in generating health intelligence, technical guidance and global coordination, but it cannot act as the world’s health “nanny.” This article examines WHO’s role during COVID-19 and why governments, ministries and other organisations must take responsibility for adapting and implementing global health guidance.