The Intelligence from The Economist Politics trumps co-operation: the WHO’s annual meeting
May 20, 2020
Simon Long, deputy digital editor at The Economist, discusses the geopolitical tensions revealed at the latest World Health Organization assembly, emphasizing the need for global unity amidst division. Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent, highlights the alarming rise in illegal logging threatening the Amazon, exacerbated by a controversial bill amid the pandemic. Tom Nuttall reflects on Florian Schneider's lasting impact on music, showcasing how Kraftwerk revolutionized the electronic genre, influencing pop and dance music today.
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Geopolitical Tensions at WHO Assembly
- The World Health Organization's annual assembly highlighted geopolitical tensions, especially between the US and China.
- These tensions threaten the WHO's authority during a time when global cooperation is crucial.
US Criticism of WHO
- President Trump accused the WHO of being influenced by China and threatened to cut funding.
- Health Secretary Alex Azar echoed these criticisms at the assembly.
China's Response to Accusations
- China rejected the US accusations and pledged $2 billion to fight the virus.
- President Xi Jinping addressed the assembly, defending China's pandemic response.