Too Big to Ail

The best government prevents rather than reacts to problems, and this is especially true for health challenges. But good prevention is rarely appreciated as much as leadership during crisis. For the World Health Organization, countries balk at paying fees. “Ebola exposed weaknesses in the WHO’s ability to respond to disease outbreaks,” suggests an essay in the Economist. “But it also highlighted deeper problems with the WHO, involving funding, structure and staff.” The World Health Organization’s work costs far more than dues paid by 194 member states, calculated according to wealth and population. Foundations, NGOs, companies and other private interests now cover 80 percent of WHO’s budget, often dictating how the funding should be used, the Economist explains. Foundations also start redundant programs. In recent years, WHO priorities focused on chronic diseases and primary care. For disease outbreaks like Ebola, the agency must scramble to catch up. WHO will struggle to reform, and the essay outlines the debate. – YaleGlobal