Calls to investigate global COVID-19 response

Global health leaders are set to call for an independent review into the international response to the COVID-19 pandemic at a meeting this week.

Representatives from 194 of the World Health Organization's member states will meet virtually for the 73rd annual World Health Assembly. The coronavirus pandemic will take centre stage.

Questions will be raised over how the virus has infected more than 4.5 million and killed more than 300,000.

Each year, countries come together at the assembly to review the work of the UN's health agency, and set its priorities for the coming year.

BBC News reports the European Union is expected to lead an international call, alongside countries including the UK, Australia and New Zealand, for an inquiry into how the global pandemic has been handled and what lessons can be learned.