The COVID-19 pandemic has been the defining global health crisis of the 21st century, affecting virtually every country and community on earth.
COVID-19 has caused millions of deaths worldwide and many more cases of long-term illness. Healthcare systems were overwhelmed, leading to delays in treatment for other conditions and significant burnout among healthcare workers.
The pandemic triggered the deepest global recession since World War II. Lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, and changed consumer behavior affected every sector. Small businesses and workers in service industries were disproportionately affected.
School closures affected over 1.6 billion students worldwide. Social isolation contributed to increases in mental health disorders, domestic violence, and substance abuse. Existing inequalities in health, wealth, and opportunity were amplified.