This seminar is for students interested in the intersection of global health and global governance, i.e. global health policy worldwide. We approach the topic through case studies of various global health issues, and use these to identify concepts and theories of global health governance. As a starting point, we assume that the health of individuals but also of nations can be protected, promoted but also harmed by a highly interconnected globalized world. Case studies on topics such as infectious diseases (e.g. Ebola), neglected tropical diseases, access to medicines, global environmental change, global alcohol and tobacco control, global treaties banning biological weapons, and migration/displacement will be actively addressed by students. In doing so, we will ask ourselves questions such as: Who are the actors in the system, how do we see their influence, and what are the impacts on health? Which processes outside the health sector, such as trade agreements, agriculture, environmental agreements, patent law or similar, have an impact on global health? And which aspects need to be strengthened to protect a human right to health?
As part of this seminar 5 students have the chance to participate in a funded excursion to WHO Bonn offices and Center for Development Research in Bonn, funding provided by the internationalisation fund of the university. As we only have limited funds available for travel, all students can participate in the 2 days events in Bonn via zoom, or join self-funded. You will prepare presentations on topics related to environmental governance and global health, and we will get insights into WHO work on climate change and health as well as meet colleagues from Maastricht University engaged in global health research. Details about application and selection processes will be presented in the first seminar session.
Course language is English and we will read English texts and watch English film excerpts, but you are always welcome to talk German in class.