Pandemic Threats in a Divided World, Seminar Highlights Need for Stronger Regional Health Security 

The School of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, convened the forum “Pandemic Threats in a Divided World: Rethinking Health Security” on 3 February 2026 at the Chula SGH Auditorium in Bangkok, Thailand. The session brought together global health experts and students for a focused discussion on emerging pandemic risks and the future of health security in an increasingly fragmented global landscape. 

Participants included faculty members, students, and public health professionals from academic and policy institutions. The discussion aimed to support ongoing dialogue on pandemic preparedness and to contribute to strengthening regional and national health security efforts. 

The forum was organized in response to growing uncertainty in global health governance and financing, alongside rising threats from climate change, demographic shifts, urbanization, and emerging infectious diseases. As traditional funding and multilateral coordination mechanisms face disruption, there is increasing urgency to reassess how countries and regions prepare for and respond to future pandemics. 

Dr. Dennis Carroll and Prof. Myat Htoo Razak provided technical perspectives on the evolving health security environment. The discussion highlighted demographic and workforce challenges, including Thailand’s rapid population aging and projected health workforce shortages, as well as the implications of urbanization and climate-related displacement for health systems. Speakers also noted the potential role of artificial intelligence in strengthening surveillance, diagnostics, and service delivery, while emphasizing that pandemics remain a predictable and recurring risk. 

Dr. Dennis Carroll delivers a keynote address on global health security and pandemic preparedness during the “Pandemic Threats in a Divided World” forum at the School of Global Health, Chulalongkorn University. 

Prof. Myat Htoo Razak shares insights on health systems resilience and regional collaboration for pandemic preparedness during the health security forum at Chulalongkorn University. 

The session underscored the importance of strengthening health systems across all levels, including surveillance, workforce development, financing, data systems, and governance. Particular attention was given to the need for country-led and regionally coordinated approaches, improved risk communication, and stronger community engagement to build trust and preparedness. 

This forum reflects the School of Global Health’s commitment to advancing evidence-based dialogue on global health security, supporting regional leadership, and strengthening systems for pandemic prevention, detection, and response.

Speakers, faculty, and participants gather for a group photo following the “Pandemic Threats in a Divided World” forum at the School of Global Health, Chulalongkorn University. 

For more photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1upOWuUDMvdD2ajOw6eeLn2TemajPUmNo