MBRSG And GCHRAGD Unite To Leverage Healthcare In Peace-Building Efforts

The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) recently collaborated with the Geneva Centre for Human Rights Advancement and Global Dialogue (GCHRAGD) to host a panel discussion aimed at exploring effective global government practices to improve healthcare access as a crucial component in peace-building efforts. This initiative is part of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two entities, designed to foster educational and research initiatives in human rights and governance by leveraging their combined expertise and international networks.

Under the theme "Right to Health and Peacebuilding Amidst Geopolitical Tensions", the session delved into the integration of healthcare into peace processes and conflict resolution, highlighting the essential role of health and medical sector professionals. The discussion also underscored the significant contribution of women in health services towards successful peace processes.

The panel featured a diverse group of experts, including Mr. Giuseppe Saba, CEO of the International Humanitarian City (IHC) in Dubai, Dr. Umesh Palwankar, Executive Director at GCHRAGD, Dr. Khulood Alsayegh from the Dubai Health Authority, and Ms. Clare Dalton from the International Committee of the Red Cross in Dubai. The session was moderated by Professor Immanuel Azaad Moonesar from MBRSG.

Discussions centered on how healthcare policymakers can operationalize health as a bridge to peace through conflict analysis, advocacy, and enhancing the capacity building of the health workforce for peace skills and partnerships. Professor Moonesar emphasized MBRSG's commitment to fostering global dialogue on these critical issues.

Dr. Umesh Palwankar highlighted the importance of humanitarian law in protecting non-combatants during armed conflicts and stressed the need to uphold the right to health and physical and moral integrity. He pointed out the severe humanitarian crises that can result from violations of these principles, especially in conflict zones like the Middle East.

The panel identified three potential intervention avenues for health as a bridge for peace programs: delivering health services in conflict zones, providing a neutral platform for collaboration on health issues, and offering mental health and rehabilitation services to support reconciliation in conflict-affected communities.

A comprehensive report detailing the panel proceedings, including a Q&A session, analytical insights, and full statements from the panelists, is set to be published. This document will contribute further to the discourse on healthcare's role in peacebuilding, highlighting the session's vital insights for governments, societal groups, private entities, international allies, and individuals on promoting health rights as a pathway to peace.

The collaboration between MBRSG and GCHRAGD exemplifies their ongoing commitment to research, advocacy, and capacity building in human rights. Their focus on equality, justice, and environmental sustainability is crucial for facilitating global dialogues and collaborations through various events and publications.

With inputs from WAM