Matthew M. Kavanagh, director of the Georgetown University Center for Global Health Policy and Politics, argues that the modern threat includes both fast scientific change and rising inequality. Science can detect outbreaks quickly and make vaccines, but pandemics are coming faster and causing greater harm. He cites data that link larger gaps between rich and poor to higher COVID-19 death rates and to more new HIV infections and AIDS deaths. He writes that inequality increases vulnerability and weakens countries' ability to respond.
Kavanagh criticises a mainly technical response. Governments invested billions in COVID-19 and HIV research, then technologies went to companies with global monopolies protected by international trade law. These monopolies restrict supply, raise prices and extend crises. He also notes that debt servicing drains budgets meant for nurses and labs, so fiscal space collapses and responses slow when a pandemic hits.
His proposals include pausing debt repayments for nations facing debt distress and pandemics such as AIDS, creating a true pandemic financing facility so emergency reserves are automatically available, and requiring technology transfer for publicly funded research. He also highlights social policies—cash transfers, food aid and child grants—that help people isolate and reduce disease risk.
Difficult words
- inequality — The difference in resources or treatment among people.
- vulnerable — People who are at risk or need support.vulnerable populations
- access — The ability to reach or use something.
- healthcare — Services that help maintain or improve health.
- responses — Actions taken to deal with a situation.response
- initiatives — New actions or programs aimed at improvement.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can governments improve access to healthcare?
- What role do community organizations play in health crises?
- Why is addressing social determinants important for health?
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