Global Health Insights

Innovation in global health is needed more now than ever — and with development assistance for health collapsing from a COVID-era peak near $80 billion to the high $30 billions and falling fast, the pressure has only intensified. In this conversation, Dr. Karlee Silver, CEO of Grand Challenges Canada, makes the case that scarcity is forcing a long-overdue shift: from supplying innovations to build...

Summary This episode explores the upcoming WHO leadership race, the challenges facing the organization, and the qualities needed in its next leader. Jocalyn Clark, international editor of the BMJ, shares insights from her recent article and interviews with global health experts. Episode description WHO is in an existential crisis, the worst in its 78 year history. It is beset by financial crisis,...

Summary This episode explores the critical issues in global surgery, including access disparities, innovative solutions, and future opportunities. Featuring experts Dr. Dhananjaya Sharma and Dr. Kee Park, it highlights how local solutions, data, and technology can transform global health outcomes. Keywords Global Surgery, Global Health, Healthcare Innovation, Access to Surgery, Frugal Solutions, A...

Summary In this conversation, Katri Bertram shares her insights on leadership in global health, discussing the lessons learned from her extensive experience in various organizations. She emphasizes the importance of accountability for results and humility in leadership. We discuss the lack of progress in Universal Health Coverage as a case example calling for leadership. Katri also reflects on the...

Keywords tobacco harm reduction, public health, vaping, smoking cessation, nicotine alternatives, epidemiology, health equity, tobacco control, global health, harm reduction strategies Summary This conversation delves into the complexities of tobacco harm reduction, exploring its definition, the science behind safer alternatives, and the significant public health implications. The speakers discuss...

Keywords global health, innovation, Grand Challenges Canada, health equity, social entrepreneurship, sustainable development, maternal health, economic productivity, health systems, international development Summary In this episode of Global Health Insights, Peter Singer interviews Dr. Karlee Silver, CEO of Grand Challenges Canada, discussing the pivotal role of innovation in global health and int...

This is the story of the suspension (in August 2024) and subsequent reinstatement (in March 2025) of the Federation of Israeli Medical Students (FIMS) into the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA). The significance of this case: it is a successful example of fighting anti-semitism in international organizations. Even though it’s small, victories over anti-Semitism are...