Case Study on Iraq

Few contemporary issues have generated more discussion and concern than has the conflict in Iraq and after four years of conflict even the short-term outcome is not at all clear. This symposium will examine current issues from political, military and social perspectives. The interface between evidence and practice will be examined, particularly from a public health aspect. To this discussion USIP will bring its extensive expertise in issues related to the Iraq conflict. Johns Hopkins will bring evidence from its survey work and challenges in measuring the impact of conflict on health. At the population level, Iraqis will describe what it means personally to live surrounded by this increasingly violent conflict. This symposium will consist of three sessions followed by a collective discussion.

    I. Voices from Iraq

    II. Analysis of causes, impact and future of the current Iraq Conflict

    III. Public Health Issues in Iraq

Task Force Events:

Armed Conflict as a Public Health Problem: Current Realities and Future Directions
April 20, 2007


Defining Conflict and Its Effects on Health: Case Study on Iraq
March 22, 2007


Negotiation and Conflict Resolution for Public Health Professionals
January 26, 2007


Defining Conflict and Its Effects on Health: Case Study on Afghanistan
February 8, 2007


Understanding Conflict and Its Relationship to Public Health: Case Study on North Korea
November 16, 2006

About the Task Force

The aim of the USIP/JHSPH Task Force on Public Health and Conflict is to assist practitioners to better fulfill their public health objectives by equipping them with conflict analysis tools as a part of the education in the public health curriculum. Public Health professionals who have a better understanding of the larger political context of health crises will also have a better understanding of the political options available for addressing such crises. In turn mediators, negotiators, and peacebuilders will enhance their ability to make broad and lasting peace when they consider the health implications of their policies and agreements.

Events

Through a series of encounters among scholars, practitioners, and students, the Task Force is taking steps toward raising the profile of conflict analysis and resolution in the field of public health education. The first of these encounters took place in November 2006 and February 2007 examining the cases of North Korea and Afghanistan. In January, USIP ran a conflict analysis and resolution workshop for public health professionals. In April, the Task Force hosts Dr. Christopher Murray to speak on the peacebuilding effects of health.

Archived Video

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