In an increasingly interconnected world, where a local health crisis can rapidly become a global pandemic, the skills of global health diplomacy and crisis management are more critical than ever. Effective health policy is no longer confined to national borders; it requires a sophisticated understanding of international relations, negotiation, and cross-cultural collaboration. This training course is designed to equip a new generation of leaders with the strategic knowledge and practical tools needed to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape of public health, ensuring a unified and proactive response to threats that transcend traditional boundaries.

This program offers a deep dive into the art of influencing international health policy and coordinating multi-national crisis responses. Participants will learn how to leverage diplomatic tools to build consensus, mobilize resources, and advocate for health priorities on the global stage. By mastering the dynamics of global governance, international law, and strategic communication, this course empowers professionals to transform reactive crisis management into a powerful force for global health security and long-term resilience.

Duration

5 days

Target Audience

• Diplomats and foreign service officers
• Public health officials working on international issues
• Senior leaders in international NGOs and UN agencies
• Health attachés and policy advisors
• Crisis and emergency managers with a health focus
• Researchers and academics in global health
• Private sector leaders in pharmaceuticals and medical technology
• Ministry of Health officials involved in international collaborations
• International relations and political science professionals
• Communication specialists for global health organizations

Objectives

• Master the principles and practice of global health diplomacy.
• Understand the geopolitical context of public health crises.
• Develop skills in cross-cultural negotiation and consensus-building.
• Navigate the complex architecture of international health governance.
• Apply diplomatic tools to influence global health policy.
• Formulate and implement strategic crisis communication plans.
• Mobilize international partnerships and resources during an emergency.
• Analyze and respond to health-related security threats.
• Understand the role of international law in public health crises.

Course Modules

Module 1: Foundations of Global Health Diplomacy

• The historical evolution of global health diplomacy.
• The intersection of health, foreign policy, and national security.
• Key players in the global health landscape: WHO, UN, and bilateral agencies.
• The principles of negotiation in a multilateral environment.
• Case studies in successful and failed health diplomacy.

Module 2: International Health Law and Governance

• The International Health Regulations (IHR) and their implementation.
• The legal frameworks governing global health security.
• The role of the World Health Assembly and other international bodies.
• Ethical and human rights considerations in global health policy.
• Global health conventions and treaties.

Module 3: Strategic Communication and Public Messaging

• Developing a crisis communication plan for a global audience.
• The role of media and social media in managing a health crisis.
• Public health risk communication strategies.
• Countering misinformation and disinformation.
• Building trust with international partners and the public.

Module 4: Crisis Management and Response Coordination

• The phases of a public health crisis: preparedness, response, and recovery.
• Establishing effective multi-agency and cross-border coordination mechanisms.
• Strategic decision-making in high-pressure, uncertain environments.
• The role of information management and data sharing.
• Lessons learned from recent global health emergencies.

Module 5: Negotiation and Influencing Skills

• The art of negotiation in a diplomatic context.
• Building coalitions and fostering consensus among diverse stakeholders.
• Using evidence and data to influence policy decisions.
• Cultural sensitivity and its importance in diplomacy.
• The dynamics of public-private partnerships in global health.

Module 6: Resource Mobilization and Partnerships

• Understanding global health financing mechanisms.
• The role of public-private partnerships in crisis response.
• Developing compelling proposals for international funding.
• Engaging with civil society organizations and community groups.
• The importance of sustainable capacity building.

Module 7: The Future of Global Health Diplomacy

• Emerging threats: climate change, antimicrobial resistance, and biosecurity.
• The role of technology and innovation in global health.
• Strengthening health systems for long-term resilience.
• The post-pandemic world: policy and governance reforms.
• Crafting a career path in global health diplomacy.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.