Presented Abstract
The Role of Health Diplomacy in Global Health Crises, conflicts and peace-making: A Scoping Review
Niharika Jha, PhD student, MPH1, Zebunnesa Zeba, MPH1, Michael Arthur Ofori, PhD student1, Shongkour Roy, PhD Student1, Nidhi Mittal, MSHI1, Brian McGoldrick, PhD1, Stella Dockery, MPM1, Nichole Saulsberry-Scarboro, PhD2, Michelle Taylor, MD, DrPH, MPA3 and Ashish Joshi, PhD1
Affiliation
- University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
- PH-IDEAS, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
- Shelby County Health Department, Memphis, TN, USA
APHA details
Program: Peace Caucus
Abstract: 577099 The Role of Health Diplomacy in Global Health Crises, conflicts and peace-making:
A Scoping Review
Format: Oral
Session: 40th Anniversary of the Peace Caucus: The role of public health professionals in
preventing war and building peace
Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Health diplomacy, the intersection of global health and international relations, plays a crucial role in addressing transnational health challenges. It facilitates cooperation among governments, international organizations, and stakeholders to strengthen health security, equity, and crisis response. In the face of growing global health crises, diplomatic efforts are essential for resource mobilization, policy coordination, and capacity building.
Objectives: The goal of this study is to review the extant literature to examine the role of health diplomacy in global health crises, conflicts, and peace-making, focusing on key actors, strategies, and challenges to enhance future emergency preparedness and response.
Method: This scoping review followed the Arksey and O’Malley framework to systematically map the role of health diplomacy in global health crises and conflicts. A literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles and gray literature. A total of 594 studies were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were extracted, charted, and thematically analyzed to identify patterns and lessons for future crises. The review adhered to PRISMA-ScR guidelines to ensure methodological rigor and transparency.
Result: Findings indicate that health diplomacy facilitates cross-border collaboration, enhances outbreak response efficiency, and strengthens health systems resilience. It also contributes to conflict resolution and peace-making efforts by fostering dialogue, building trust, and promoting equitable access to healthcare. However, challenges such as political conflicts, unequal resource distribution, and limited enforcement of international agreements hinder its effectiveness. Key actors in health diplomacy include governments, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, healthcare professionals, and local communities, each playing a vital role in shaping policies and facilitating collaboration during health crises. Strengthening multilateral cooperation, enhancing transparency, and reinforcing global governance mechanisms are critical for improving health diplomacy’s impact on future health emergencies.
Conclusion: Health diplomacy plays a vital role in global health crisis response by fostering international collaboration, coordinating resources, advancing healthcare capacity, and promoting conflict resolution and peacebuilding.