Global Health and the
World Health Organization
our take...
The Bottom Line
It is imperative that the United States remain committed to the advancement of global health. 1787 supports:
The World Health Organization (WHO). It’s more important than ever before that the WHO’s 194 member countries have a common organization to establish worldwide health policies, and to act like a point guard when the world is faced with a global health crisis, coordinating responses and making clear and consistent recommendations.
Restructuring the WHO to look more like the World Trade Organization (WTO), where the rules – which are set and enforced by the members – can impose disciplines on the individual policies of member countries.
WHO leadership that does not allow itself to be pulled in too many different directions – especially between influential stakeholders like China, the United States and private donors like the Gates Foundation. The WHO must have leaders who don’t bow to political pressure. Period.
Continued development of drugs, vaccines, diagnostic tests, and other treatments for diseases that are still prevalent in poorer countries, like tuberculosis and malaria. We believe there should be a strong focus on infectious disease prevention and treatment for diseases like pneumonia.
Continued funding of HIV/AIDS research through PEPFAR to end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat once and for all. HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, remains one of the world’s most serious public health challenges. There were 39.9 million people across the globe living with HIV in 2023, including 1.4 million children under the age of 15.
A United Nations resolution to regulate the use of antibiotics – in both humans and agriculture – to effectively manage the growing threat of drug-resistant infections.
Providing modern contraceptive methods – along with improved education – to women and girls in low- and middle-income countries, which can lead to smaller family sizes, lower infant mortality, and potentially lower levels of disease.
Investment in effective prevention and treatment options for mental disorders, which are a leading cause of disability worldwide. The mental health impact of recent global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, wars, geo-political chaos, social isolation, and environmental change has been significant and far-reaching, with no signs of abating.