The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted Germany’s scientific influence in the international fight against the corona pandemic. This was “unsurpassed,” said the WHO’s top crisis manager, Mike Ryan, at the annual meeting of the Leopoldina Academy of Sciences in Halle on Friday. “A plan doesn’t guarantee success, but you don’t get anywhere without a plan,” Ryan said.
Countries that had an approximate direction — even if it wasn’t always 100 percent right — have weathered the pandemic better so far, Ryan said. Knowledge- and data-based decision-making, which is getting better and better based on experience with the pandemic, is important. Science has made huge progress during the pandemic, but better communication and, above all, acceptance in society are needed.
Ryan emphasized that discussions and disputes must be conducted constructively. It’s about shaping the future and not creating fear. “The pandemic has changed our society forever,” said Ryan. He warned of further social divisions, which had also been fueled by problems caused by the pandemic.
