Global health is in the midst of a profound structural crisis. Massive cuts in public funding, coupled with an already growing dependence on private actors, weak multilateral institutions and rising inequalities, are jeopardising the human right to health. 4.5 billion people have no access to basic health services. Against this backdrop, new ways of mobilising funds are being discussed. Many see an opportunity in the even greater involvement of private actors.
However, this should be carefully examined and structured so that it actually has a sustainable impact, particularly for the poorest and most marginalised populations worldwide, and does not primarily serve the interests of private actors. Democratic oversight, human rights-based policies, strong public institutions and genuine civil society participation are crucial to realising the right to health worldwide. Only by strengthening the World Health Organization (WHO), ensuring greater transparency, regulating private influence and investing in public health systems and social security systems can a just global health order for all be achieved.
Against this backdrop, Brot für die Welt, Global Policy Forum Europe and Misereor have formulated six theses on the role of private actors in global health and recommendations for action for the German government and the Bundestag in this briefing paper.
