In-person meeting of The NUS-Lancet PRIME Commission, 26th February 2025, Singapore
NUS-Lancet PRIME Commission held an in-person update meeting with Commissioners from Singapore on 26 February 2025. The meeting reviewed progress and discussed the evolving global context for pandemic preparedness, prevention and response. Commissioners supported a broader, inclusive and multisectoral approach that remains grounded in practical and actionable recommendations, while continuing to place communities, equity and whole-of-society approaches at the centre of the Commission’s work. The Commission reaffirmed its ambition to launch its findings globally in October 2026.
A tentative three-part structure for the final Commission report was discussed. Part 1, “The Review: Understanding Past Responses,” will examine the evolution of health security frameworks, whole-of-society approaches, existing monitoring and evaluation systems, and systemic challenges in pandemic preparedness. Part 2, “The Inquiry: Generating Original Insights,” will present new evidence from regional and global perspectives, country case studies and forecasting exercises exploring different geopolitical and multilateral scenarios. Part 3, “The Manifesto,” will set out proposals to reshape pandemic preparedness, including practical recommendations and a focused set of indicators, targets or capacities.
Commissioners emphasised that the Commission should complement rather than duplicate existing frameworks and should avoid overly prescriptive indicators. Discussion focused on developing a small set of approximately 15 practical, impactful and adaptable indicators, while recognising the challenges of measuring whole-of-society preparedness. The Commission will also consider how its recommendations can demonstrate economic value and support countries in making a strong case for investment in pandemic preparedness, particularly in a changing global funding environment.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of maintaining the Commission’s independence while engaging strategically with organisations such as WHO and other global health partners. Further collaboration with China, the United States and The Independent Panel is being explored, alongside continued engagement with Commissioners and experts. The Scientific team will update the country's case study protocol and refine the Commission’s workplan, while preparations are underway for the next in-person Commission meeting in Singapore in October 2025. The Commission will continue to develop its final report, strengthen stakeholder engagement and advance towards its planned global launch in 2026.