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Absolutely: PHEIC declaration is a global clarion call (esp. alerting non-health govt depts) but also impacts USAID guidance & programs.
"@KarenBassTweets opening statement for “Eradicating Ebola” hearing: why haven’t we declared a PHEIC? USAID needs to be able to respond."
"@KarenBassTweets opening statement for “Eradicating Ebola” hearing: why haven’t we declared a PHEIC? USAID needs to be able to respond."
Here's the proposed Bill to fund USAID for the Ebola response (thanks @BioAndBaseball!). ("Ebola eradication" may not be the most well-thought out title...)
foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/…
foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/…
And here's USAID's 2016 guidance on diverting funds for specific emergencies during a PHEIC. (NB: there were some updates in 2018 dealing with PHEICs and complex emergencies that may also be relevant)
scms.usaid.gov/sites/default/…
scms.usaid.gov/sites/default/…
Here's the OIG's review of the response to Ebola, including response from USAID to specific emergencies, whether or not a PHEIC declared: oig.usaid.gov/sites/default/…
Is this an argument for declaring a PHEIC, no.
But it highlights the normative framework affecting implementation of the IHR in states around the world for when an extraordinary event occurs that is a public health risk to other states, requiring international coord response.
But it highlights the normative framework affecting implementation of the IHR in states around the world for when an extraordinary event occurs that is a public health risk to other states, requiring international coord response.
Without doubt: this outbreak requires a community-led, ground up, social & political response. A lot of claims are being made about negative or no-impacts of a PHEIC, without considering the long-term impact delaying this will have on norms and legal obligations.
PHEIC criteria were negotiated w cognisance of sovereignty, negating risk of travel/trade restrictions & preserving norms (eg. notification). If PHEIC not suitable for modern complex health emergencies we need rethink. Ignoring intl law undermines norms & makes us all less safe.
Whatever happens with this outbreak (if rapidly contained w limited further loss of life (my sincere & deep hope) or if spreads to other countries) the PHEIC process needs review involving range of experts: public health, political scientists, lawyers, anthropologists & states
