The Human Variome Project: Global Coordination in Data Sharing
This article outlines a global effort initiated in 2006 to standardize and share genetic data for clinical and research purposes, supported by international bodies such as UNESCO. It details the establishment of national hubs to ethically collect, curate, and disseminate genomic information, addressing infrastructure gaps and fostering regional collaboration through diplomacy. The initiative aims to advance healthcare equity and improve diagnostics through coordinated, cross-border cooperation by prioritizing capacity-building in underserved regions and harmonizing data practices. Download
Science as Diplomacy: The Strategic Power of One Health in Global Policy
The One Health approach, which recognizes the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health, is not only a matter of scientific collaboration but also a prime example of Science Diplomacy in action. Science Diplomacy goes beyond cooperation to engage science as a strategic diplomatic tool, capable of influencing global policies, easing geopolitical tensions, and fostering trust between nations with differing agendas. Through this lens, the One Health approach becomes a means of addressing complex and often contentious global challenges by leveraging scientific expertise in diplomatic negotiations, international treaties, and conflict resolution. The diplomatic role of science becomes evident in how scientific knowledge informs global health policies, mediates disputes, and fosters international trust. For instance, pandemic preparedness is not just about sharing research and data but also about aligning different national interests in a way that can prevent diplomatic rifts during crises. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, the distribution of vaccines, access to essential medicines, and the regulation of travel and trade became highly politicized. Scientific expertise, combined with diplomatic negotiation, helped to form frameworks like COVAX that sought to balance national interests with global health equity. This balance required science to be used as a diplomatic instrument, guiding international discussions toward a common understanding of the evidence and creating mutual agreements amidst political tension. Similarly, global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) highlight the diplomatic weight science carries in policy discussions. AMR is driven by practices in agriculture, healthcare, and environmental management that are influenced by economic interests, political priorities, and social norms in different countries. Here, science provides the common ground upon which diplomatic negotiations occur. Initiatives like the Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, developed by WHO, FAO, and WOAH, were not just scientific collaborations but diplomatic triumphs—binding nations to a shared set of guidelines that balanced national sovereignty with the need for collective action. In this case, scientific evidence served as the backbone for treaty-making, where diplomatic negotiations turned scientific consensus into political commitments. The One Health approach to climate change and environmental degradation similarly exemplifies Science Diplomacy. Environmental health directly impacts national economies, food security, and public health, making it a politically charged issue. Here, science plays a diplomatic role by creating a neutral ground for dialogue between countries that may be at odds on other fronts. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), for example, has been instrumental in shaping the Paris Agreement. Through scientific assessments of climate change’s impact on ecosystems, agriculture, and human health, the IPCC’s work serves as a diplomatic bridge, ensuring that all parties—despite conflicting political or economic interests—base their negotiations on shared scientific understanding. Science thus becomes a tool not just for cooperation but for diplomatic consensus-building, helping to mediate conflicts over resource management, carbon emissions, and environmental responsibility. In the context of wildlife conservation and zoonotic disease surveillance, Science Diplomacy plays a role in preemptive conflict resolution. Zoonotic diseases, such as Ebola and avian influenza, often emerge from regions with significant biodiversity and sometimes weak governance structures. The risk of diseases spilling over into human populations can become a source of diplomatic tension between neighboring nations or trading partners. Science can act as a diplomatic intermediary by offering objective, evidence-based assessments of the risks and by establishing internationally recognized protocols for disease surveillance. This allows nations to resolve potential conflicts diplomatically before they escalate, with organizations such as the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) providing platforms for scientific-diplomatic engagement. Rather than being a purely cooperative effort, this is a strategic use of science to negotiate boundaries, responsibilities, and shared risk. Food safety and food security provide further examples of the diplomatic role of science. Disputes over food standards, trade, and agricultural practices can create tension between nations, particularly when health and safety regulations differ. Science Diplomacy here is used to harmonize these standards while respecting national sovereignty, thus preventing potential trade wars or diplomatic standoffs. For example, the Codex Alimentarius Commission, a joint effort by WHO and FAO, plays a diplomatic role in mediating disagreements over food safety, using scientific evidence to broker consensus on what constitutes safe food practices. In this capacity, science is not just enabling cooperation but is driving diplomatic negotiation, ensuring that trade disputes do not escalate into larger geopolitical conflicts by grounding them in neutral, scientifically verifiable standards. In the broader context of environmental issues like biodiversity loss and pollution, science is used to establish common metrics for environmental impact assessments, which then feed into diplomatic negotiations for treaties like the Convention on Biological Diversity or the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer. Science acts as a form of diplomatic currency in these discussions, allowing countries with divergent interests to engage in constructive dialogue based on mutually understood scientific principles. Diplomatic negotiations often hinge on the interpretation of scientific data, with science providing the means to translate complex environmental challenges into actionable policies, thus preventing potential conflicts over resource use and environmental degradation. In conclusion, the One Health approach is not just about scientific collaboration; it is a key arena for Science Diplomacy, where science plays a diplomatic role in shaping international policies, mediating disputes, and fostering global trust. By applying scientific principles in diplomatic contexts, nations can navigate the challenges of human, animal, and environmental health with greater clarity and consensus, ultimately leading to more effective and equitable global governance. In this sense, the diplomatic role of science in One Health goes beyond cooperation—it is about using scientific knowledge as a strategic tool to resolve conflicts, negotiate treaties, and build long-term, sustainable relationships between nations. About the author Casimiro Vizzini A Medical Doctor specializing in Urology, with advanced studies in International Cooperation, he has over 18 years of experience bridging science, health, and diplomacy. His career spans roles at UNESCO, where he led science policy and capacity-building projects, collaborated with the AAAS on science diplomacy, and secured European Commission funding for global partnerships. As Secretary General of EUGLOH, he advanced academic collaboration in global health, and currently,
Transforming Global Health Partnerships
Transforming Global Health Partnerships: Critical Reflections and Visions of Equity at the Research-Practice Interface, edited by Anna Stewart Ibarra and A. Desiree LaBeaud. It is part of the Sustainable Development Goals Series. With contributions from over 90 authors across 26 countries, it examines the global health landscape through themes such as decolonization, ethics, gender, systems approach, transdisciplinary science, Planetary Health, One Health, and communication. Covering historical contexts, case studies, and future visions, the book emphasizes equitable and impactful partnerships among researchers, community leaders, and policymakers to address global health challenges. Download book
Health diplomacy in war and international conflict
In an era where international conflicts and wars are increasingly prevalent, Health Diplomacy has become critical to effectively address prevalent health challenges and the deterioration of health systems. This webinar will examine the distinct health needs of different conflict zones, the limitations and priorities of health diplomacy, and the relationship between health and humanitarian diplomacy. The discussion will also consider the role of Health Diplomacy in resource mobilization and the tools necessary to strengthen health systems in crisis settings, mitigate the impacts of conflict, and contribute to long-term peace-building. Date: Tuesday, 29 October 2024 Time: 14:00 – 15:30 CET Format: Webinar (via Teams) – In English Register here: https://tinyurl.com/HealthDiplomacyWar
Launch of the Health Diplomacy Youth Network
The Health Diplomacy Youth Network is an initiative designed to bring together young leaders committed to advancing global health through diplomacy and policy. The network\’s official launch will take place on 20 September 2024, parallel to the Summit of the Future Action Days. By becoming part of this network, you will have the opportunity to engage with peers, exchange ideas, and contribute to critical discussions shaping the future of global health diplomacy. We look forward to welcoming you to this dynamic community and to your involvement in shaping impactful solutions for global health. Register your interest and join us 👉 https://forms.office.com/e/YGfhKcDFD8 Let\’s unite in our commitment to advancing health diplomacy and working towards a healthier, more equitable world for all. Mark your calendars and join us on 20 September 2024 at Summit of the Future Action Days in New York City.
CSO Participation INB
HDA Calls for Inclusion of CSO in INB Pandemic Agreement Negotiations The Health Diplomacy Alliance emphasizes the critical importance of civil society organizations (CSOs) in the ongoing Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) process for the pandemic agreement. As we approach the final and most crucial stage of these negotiations, HDA advocates for a comprehensive and inclusive approach that incorporates the invaluable insights and expertise of CSOs. Health diplomacy plays a pivotal role in shaping a robust and impactful pandemic agreement. It is through the collective effort of diverse stakeholders, including governments, CSOs, and academia, that we can address the multifaceted challenges posed by pandemics. The involvement of CSOs is essential to ensure that the agreement is grounded in equity, human rights, and the lived experiences of healthcare workers and communities. HDA firmly believes that the negotiation process should remain transparent, inclusive, and participatory. By fostering an environment where all relevant stakeholders can contribute meaningfully, the development of an agreement not only addresses immediate public health needs but also strengthens global resilience against future pandemics and health emergencies. Support for PAN\’s Open Call In alignment with our commitment to inclusive health diplomacy, HDA supports the open call by the Pandemic Action Network and is a signatory of their request. We stand with over 140 civil society organizations and supporters from 40 countries in urging Member States and the INB to ensure the official involvement of CSOs in all remaining negotiations. Join us and Sign on
Walk the Talk: Health for All Challenge
Get ready to join the Health Diplomacy Alliance as we participate in the 5th edition of the Walk the Talk: Health for All Challenge on May 26, 2024! Returning to Geneva, Switzerland, this event promises to provide a healthy kickstart to the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly. The WHO is leading this initiative, collaborating with the UN family, Member States, athletes, local sports clubs, health partners, and the Geneva community to emphasize the importance of healthy lifestyles. The Walk the Talk event serves as a platform to showcase measures for safely conducting public events, particularly amidst global health concerns. It brings together diverse stakeholders committed to promoting health and well-being on a global scale. Our participation underscores the Health Diplomacy Alliance\’s dedication to fostering collaboration and diplomacy in addressing health challenges worldwide. We are actively engaged in advocating for sustainable agreements for future pandemics, ensuring equity within the global health landscape. Let\’s unite in our commitment to advancing health diplomacy and working towards a healthier, more equitable world for all. Mark your calendars and join us on May 26, 2024 at 08:30h @Place des Nations, as we Walk the Talk for Health for All!
