Liz Schrayer, President & CEO of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, took a closer look at the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. She explained that political will and investments in global health can help stop future disease outbreaks. She argued that there is bipartisan consensus that the U.S. needs to lead a global response to COVID-19 and prepare for the next global pandemic. However, the funding commitments are not yet sufficient.
Schrayer laid out three priorities for the U.S., its allies, and the global business community: 1. Vaccinate 70% of the world’s population within a year; 2. Dramatically scale up testing, treatment, personal protective equipment, and oxygen supply chains to save lives now; and, 3. Build capacity and invest in global health infrastructure. She urged constituents to engage with their elected officials to prioritize foreign aid, diplomacy, and global health. Given our interconnected world, engaging internationally makes the U.S. more safe and secure.
The truth is, we are falling short on the global stage. We all have to do our part.
Liz Schrayer