Last Friday I had the opportunity to once again join the Scholars Circle podcast hosted by the University of Auckland to discussing the evolving realities surrounding COVID-19 and the emergence of the Omicron variant.
This was the fourth time I have had the privilege of joining Scholars Circle since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Other episodes that I have joined have addressed the role of WHO in the outbreak, the human rights implications of COVID-19 lockdowns and other responses, and the potential of vaccines to bring the COVID-19 pandemic under control.
I also worked with one of our GRIT Lab students, Dannyl Lou (USC Class of 2022), on a Blog regarding the effectiveness of international institutions in facilitating cooperation and coordination among member nations and protecting the poorest from the abusive use of power in the international system during the COVID-19 pandemic (not a positive piece). This Blog is being expanded as we speak to a full length research paper that Danny will present in April at the International Studies Association (ISA) Annual Conference in Nashville.
I believe it is critical that global health professionals engage in public outreach and help our communities better understand the consequences of our policies and actions on health at home and around the world. If you are ever looking for someone to join your show or podcast or comment on current events from the perspective of global health, contact me!