WHS Perspectives
WHS Perspectives features leading voices on priority global health issues. It examines cross-cutting challenges through evidence-informed contributions from experts across sectors. The series provides a platform for diverse perspectives, supporting WHS’s mission to strengthen dialogue and advance collaborative action for healthier societies.
Global Health Architecture
Today’s global health architecture is more fragmented than ever, marked by overlapping mandates, parallel financing channels, and limited coordination. With its structures, governance, financing, and key actors all under review, the global community is rethinking how the system can work more effectively.
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The paradox at the heart of the 79th World Health Assembly
While the 79th World Health Assembly delivered important progress on global health reform, it also exposed growing political divisions within multilateral health governance. Dr Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, explores the tension between greater health sovereignty, global cooperation, and the rising influence of geopolitics on the future of global health.
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It’s about power – not architecture
Global health reform is often discussed in technical terms, but WHS Council Co-Chair Ilona Kickbusch argues that the real issue is power. She explains why reform efforts will fall short unless they confront the geopolitical and economic interests that shape priorities, control financing, and define evidence.
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“America First” Global Health Strategy: A Seismic Rupture in Solidarity and Global Health Governance
The US withdrawal from the WHO, collapsing aid budgets, and a shift toward bilateral agreements are reshaping the foundations of international health cooperation – with devastating consequences for the world's most vulnerable. Lawrence O. Gostin and Sam Halabi assess the fallout and outline what the global community must do next.
Health Security
Health security aims to protect people and health systems from threats such as pandemics, natural disasters, drug resistance, and conflict. The field covers many areas, from strengthening pandemic preparedness to protecting critical infrastructure, raising discussions about how closely health and security should be connected.
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Health security: Why fragile systems threaten us all
Where health systems are weak, crises spread faster and recovery takes longer. IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagain explains why investing in strong local health systems and protecting frontline workers is essential for global stability.
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Actionable Intelligence: Why Geospatial Foresights are the Missing Link in Global Health Security
Dr. Monica Bharel argues that geospatial AI and integrated data systems can transform global health from reactive surveillance to proactive intelligence. By combining environmental, population, and health data, these tools could help predict outbreaks, guide resource allocation, and strengthen global health security.
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Without a comprehensive approach and investments in global health, the goal of “global security” will always be elusive
True global security depends on health. With pandemic risks rising and global health funding falling, Dr. Seth Berkley warns that neglecting preparedness puts everyone at risk.