Since 5th May 2023 COVID-19 is not considered a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), rather “an established and ongoing health issue” [1]. This was a moment to celebrate achievements, like the dedication of healthcare workers but also to reflect on the mistakes made [1]. Many COVID-19 deaths are still reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) and reminds us to learn from the past and take advantage of windows of opportunity before the next large-scale global health emergency. The Association of Schools of Public Health in the European Region (ASPHER)’s 20 key lessons learned and recommendations, draw from three broad influences: international reports, ASPHER COVID-19 Task Force publications, and country perspectives.