Five out of seven billion people in this world do not have access to safe anaesthesia and surgery. Anaesthesia is essential for a well-functioning health system, as highlighted by WHA Resolution 68.15 on Strengthening Emergency and Essential Surgical Care and Anaesthesia as a Component of Universal Health Coverage.

Anaesthesiologists are medical specialists who are not just experts in the perioperative care of surgical patients; they are also experts in resuscitation, pain medicine and intensive care.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, anaesthesiologists working in emergency departments, operating rooms, and intensive care units have played a pivotal frontline role in saving the lives of infected patients.

Unfortunately, in many low- and middle-income countries, there has been chronic under-resourcing of anaesthesia and intensive care.

High-income countries have struggled to cope with COVID-19 and the pandemic is likely to have an even more devastating impact in countries with fewer resources.

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