GLOBAL HEALTH SECURITY
In an increasingly interconnected world, the issue of global health security stands as
a paramount concern, transcending national boundaries and demanding collaborative
responses from the international community. Defined by a network of key actors,
encompassing entities such as the World Health Organization the domain of global health
security seeks to safeguard populations from the threats of pandemics, infectious diseases,
and other health emergencies. However, the orthodox conception of global health security,
as defined by organizations like the WHO and initiatives such as the Global Health Security
Agenda, is not without its challenges and criticisms. This essay critically examines the
multifaceted landscape of global health security, delving into dissenting accounts that
challenge traditional definitions, and analyses the politics of security within this domain.
Drawing upon relevant theories such as Securitization Theory, Realism and Constructivism,
we can explore the diverse perspectives and underlying political motivations that shape
global health security efforts. Through a comprehensive analysis of key actors, critical
viewpoints and political theories, this essay seeks to unravel the complexities of global
health security, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced and the
potential pathways for future advancements in this crucial area of international public
health.
Global health security is a complex and multifaceted concept shaped by various key
actors and organizations. Despite its widespread usage, the word "health security" is still
ambiguous and debatable. According to research of (Moodie, Gerami and Alessandra, 2021)
it can be determined that there is ‘no agreement on the definition of ‘security’ let alone
how this term should be applied in a health context’. At the forefront of defining global
, health security are international entities like the World Health Organization (WHO), which
plays a pivotal role in coordinating responses to health emergencies worldwide. According
to (WHO, 2022) ‘Global public health security is defined as the activities required, both
proactive and reactive, to minimize the danger and impact of acute public health events
that endanger people’s health across geographical regions and international boundaries.’
Additionally, governmental bodies, particularly those of economically powerful nations,
significantly influence global health security policies and initiatives. An example of this is
Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) which state global security as ‘Global
health security is the existence of strong and resilient public health systems that can
prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats, wherever they occur in the
world.’ (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). Furthermore, academic
institutions and research organizations conduct essential studies and analyses, offering
valuable insights into emerging health threats and potential solutions. Ultimately, the
collaboration and synergy among these actors and organizations form the foundation of
global health security, highlighting the intricate web of expertise, resources, and influence
essential in safeguarding the world's population from health crises.
Global health security is delineated through a series of key documents and
instruments that provide frameworks and strategies to address health threats on a global
scale. One fundamental document in this domain is the International Health Regulations
(IHR) established by the World Health Organization (WHO). Enacted in 2005, the IHR serve
as a binding legal instrument that outlines the responsibilities of countries to detect, assess,
report, and respond to public health emergencies of international concern (World Health
Organization, 2016). Another critical document is the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA),
a multilateral initiative launched in 2014 with the aim of fostering collaboration and capacity
