The International Politics of Global Health

About

This course will provide you with an introduction to some basic political theory, a history of international politics and global governance, and to the structure of the global political economy. Students will then be given an opportunity to learn about the actors, structures and politics of global health governance and international health policy. This will include learning about global actors such as WHO, the Gates Foundation and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria; as well as the role of civil society organisations and social movements in promoting global health equity.

With these basic building blocks in place, we will examine the following contemporary health issues through a social and political lens: health financing and health sector reform; global pandemic threats and the securitisation of health; the effects of armed conflict on health; and the influence of trade and business on health.

We will also examine health inequalities within the local area of East London - a part of London which includes both some of the most deprived households in the country, as well as one of the biggest financial and banking hubs in the world. This will include a field trip, as well as a global health 'treasure hunt' in the British Museum.

Course leader

Dr Maria Berta and Dr Wiam Alashek

Target group

Undergraduates

Course aim

This course will introduce you to basic political theory; globalisation and the global political economy; and the structures, rules, systems and actors of global health governance. You will be introduced to relevant aspects of international relations, international law and global policy as you relate to some of the most pressing current global health priorities.

Fee info