The use of HUMINT in epidemics: a practical assessment

摘要

In this article we explore the potential applications for Human Intelligence (HUMINT) operations in Public Health Emergencies of International Concern (PHEICs) and epidemics. We examine the complex circumstances surrounding outbreaks and how these require the synthesis and analysis of new sources of information and intelligence. We explore the benefits from these tactics by examining intelligence gaps and their consequences during the initial stages of the Ebola outbreak of 2014-2016. Finally, we look at what parameters and circumstances would be needed for the application of HUMINT operations in PHEICs and attempt to understand some of the constraints to its use.