Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 05/2011

Human Rights, Health Sector Abuse and Corruption

Brigit Toebes

April 2011

Human Rights & Human Welfare (University of Denver)

Abstract

ABSTRACT –research indicates that health sectors in both poor and rich nations are vulnerable to abuse and corruption. This paper discusses the character and scope of health sector abuse and corruption. It suggests that human rights law can play an important role in enhancing the transparency and integrity of health systems. Based on the existing human rights framework, some tools are provided and examples are given of how this can be done. Subsequently, it is argued that some of such abuses can lead to corrupt acts, as identified under international law. It is maintained that there are clear links between such corrupt acts and human rights law, and that some of such acts can be identified as concrete human rights violations.