Redefining HHS International Response: Challenges and Recommendations for Interagency Partnerships

摘要

The world's population is growing by approximately 60 million people annually, estimated to reach eight billion by 2030; 95 percent of the increase is in the developing world. Where economic growth fails to support population increases, the potential for instability or war will be considerable. Lessons learned from stability operations (SO) in Afghanistan and Iraq have resulted in transformed U.S. national security strategies for an increased 'whole of government' approach. In 2006, the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act (PAHPA), established the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). PAHPA provided new authorities to HHS, directing the ASPR to 'provide leadership in international programs, initiatives, and policies that deal with public health and medical emergency preparedness and response.' The ASPR international role is developing. A recent RAND report called for U.S. Army's research institutes, such as the U.S. Army War College, to determine how civilian departments and agencies might contribute to a strategic vision for the interagency SO process. This research aims to shape recommendations and priorities for HHS action, fostering interagency partnering in SO.