Based on the mandate given to it by its Member States, the World Health Organization (WHO) has a key coordinating role in combating pandemics and other large-scale health emergencies. The WHO may assist its Member States in health emergencies upon their request. In addition, the Member States may draw up international treaties within the WHO framework. An example of such a treaty is the WHO International Health Regulations (IHR 2005), which were drawn up to combat cross-border health threats. Finland brought the IHR into force in 2007.