Tuesday, November 19, 2024

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Clarendon Room E

---

Details

Hosted by: Prof. Anne Marie Thow, University of Sydney Ms Diana Rosert, UN Trade and Development, Prof Wolfgang Alschner, University of Ottawa Facilitated by: Prof. Anne Marie Thow, University of Sydney Ms Diana Rosert, UN Trade and Development, Prof Wolfgang Alschner, University of Ottawa Prof. Alan Winters, UK Centre for Inclusive Trade Policy Dr Alison Tedstone, WHO-European Region Mr Thien Hoang, Monash University Target audience: Public health academics, practitioners and advocates interested in the interface between health and international investment treaties, and opportunities for action at global and national levels. Learning Outcomes: - Understand the health equity dimensions of pandemic preparedness and response at global and national levels - Discuss and analyse case studies of health inequities associated with the COVID-19 response - Identify and develop strategies for more equitable pandemic preparedness and response - Network with others interested in the health equity issues associated with pandemic preparedness and response at global and national levels About: International Investment Agreements (IIAs) form parts of efforts by International Investment Agreements (IIAs) form parts of efforts by governments to attract foreign investment. However, industry actors have used them to dispute health policy measures in critical areas, including tobacco control and access to medicines. Governments find themselves caught between the interests of the investors (companies), and the health of their citizens. The World Health Organization has recommended that health safeguards be built into IIAs. However, their adoption has been limited and inconsistent. This workshop will present new evidence on: 1) best-practice options to successfully safeguard health in IIAs, and 2) strategies for public health actors to support the inclusion of health safeguards in future IIAs. The workshop will include facilitated discussion on opportunities for investment policy to better enable and protect the adoption of strong health policy measures at the national level, and how public health actors can strategically encourage inclusion of health safeguards in IIAs. Workshop theme/topics: - International trade and investment and health - Commercial and political determinants of health - Global, regional and local governance for health