The case for investing in global health inclusivity

The case for investing in global health inclusivity
15
May 2025 — 5:00PM TO 6:15PM
Anonymous (not verified)
25 March 2025

Chatham House and Online

Promoting health equity in a fragmented geopolitical landscape.

In an environment characterised by the policies of economic security, global health stakeholders must balance the growing political emphasis on growth and productivity with the drive to streamline government spending. However, the case for investment in health provisions is strong. Effective data collection and an understanding of the lived experience of service users allows public and private sector stakeholders to concentrate funding efforts where it will have the most impact and far reaching benefits. By targeting key areas like oral health, air pollution or health literacy, policymakers and investors can be assured of effective outcomes that improve health systems while also driving productivity and growth. Targeting policies to reduce both mortality and morbidity rates ensures a higher proportion of a given population can actively support a productive and competitive economy. This in turn increases societal resilience to future shocks in an increasingly unstable world.

Drawing on the findings of the third edition of the Economist Impact Health Inclusivity Index, supported by Haleon, this event examines investment and policy pathways to a more equitable health landscape and how leveraging collaboration between public, private and civil society actors can support economic growth and productivity goals.

Discussion questions include:

  • Which health inclusivity approaches can be regarded as ‘easy wins’  that drive economic growth and how can public and private sector actors move the discussion forward?
  • How should the lived experiences of service users inform health inclusivity initiatives in an environment where healthcare is not always prioritized, despite its benefits to economic growth?
  • How resilient are health systems in the face of the challenges including government cost cutting, changing demography and service allocation?
  • How can the global health ecosystem maintain a collective focus on inclusivity when international consensus is increasingly dominated by national interests above common values?

A drinks reception will follow this event from 18:15 – 19:30 BST.

The institute occupies a position of respect and trust, and is committed to fostering inclusive dialogue at all events. Event attendees are expected to uphold this by adhering to our code of conduct.

Source: Chathamhouse Events