Globalization has brought the benefits of efficient transport and trade to many people across the world. But, it has also allowed the rapid spread of diseases that otherwise may have been contained by geographical boundaries.

Major emergencies, disasters and other public threats do not respect national borders and never occur at convenient times. The magnitude of human suffering caused by these events is huge, and many aspects of people’s lives are affected – health, security, housing, access to food, water and other life commodities. That is why it’s vital to strengthen public health preparedness planning and timely response.

In today’s world, health security needs to be provided through coordinated action and cooperation between and within governments, the corporate sector, civil society, media and individuals. No single institution or country has all the capacities needed to respond to international public health emergencies caused by epidemics, natural disasters or environmental emergencies, or by new and emerging infectious diseases. Only by detecting and reporting problems in their earliest hours can the most appropriate experts and resources be deployed to prevent or halt the international spread of disease.

Health, development and global security are linked. Investment in health is a cornerstone of economic growth and development. Moreover, the security of all countries is today increasingly dependent on the capacity of each to act effectively, and collectively, to minimize health threats.