Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 02/2010

Post-Conflict Health Reconstruction: New Foundations for U.S. Policy

Leonard S. Rubenstein

September 2009

United States Institute of Peace

Abstract

A new USIP report examines how improving health systems in post-conflict countries can help promote peace and prevent renewed violence in those nations, and the implications of health reconstruction for U.S. policy. In "Post-Conflict Health Reconstruction: New Foundations for a U.S. Policy," USIP fellow Leonard Rubenstein looks at the impact of armed conflict on health indicators in various hotspots around the world, and the underlying connection between health and U.S. policy towards countries in and emerging from conflict. In doing so, Rubenstein argues why addressing dire health situations can help advance peace and resolve conflicts, as well as help the U.S. win hearts and minds abroad. Finally, the author takes on the timely question: if rebuilding health systems is a priority for U.S. policy, what changes should be made to U.S. foreign aid programs and agency responsibilities?