Establishing clinical research networks for future infectious disease outbreak responses in Southeast Asia: Report of a workshop on challenges and opportunities

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for well-established clinical research networks capable of rapid response during infectious disease outbreaks. In Southeast Asia, the absence of active research networks at the onset of the COVID-19 contributed to gaps in regional preparedness. This manuscript discusses the challenges and opportunities identified during a regional workshop held in Singapore (February 26 to March 1, 2024), which brought together 130 stakeholders from across the region. The workshop aimed to build consensus on strategies to strengthen existing networks by developing human capacity, overcoming resource limitations, and sustaining collaborative research during inter-pandemic periods. Key challenges identified included the variability in research infrastructure across countries, complex regulatory requirements, and insufficient funding during non-outbreak periods. Recommendations include the development of standardized research protocols, the creation of a regional data sharing platform, and fostering sustained collaboration to ensure these networks remain functional and responsive. Addressing these gaps is critical for enhancing Southeast Asia's capacity to conduct high-quality clinical trials and effectively respond to future infectious disease outbreaks.

Keywords: Clinical research networks; Disease X; Global health; Pandemic preparedness; Respiratory infections; Southeast Asia.

Figure 1

Countries in Southeast Asia, with the number of participants attending the workshop.

Figure 2

Key actions as the way forward. AMR, antimicrobial resistance; WHO, World Health Organization.