Public Health in Asia during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This chapter argues that the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the weaknesses of the UN system. This system becomes ineffective when the United States fails to lead during global health crises. At the regional level, the COVID-19 responses in Asian countries have shown that China cannot garner enough trust to replace the US as a leading power to maintain regional order. China was not transparent enough in handling the new virus at the start of 2020. Besides, Beijing's intimidation tactics towards, among others, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Australia, continued unabated during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. These incidents highlight the importance of the US presence in the region. The chapter concludes that restoring trust in the US as the beacon of democracy and openness is crucial.