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The World Economic Forum: An unaccountable force in global health governance?

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  • Desmond McNeill

Abstract

The World Economic Forum is a major player in global health governance, promoting the role of the private sector and specific public–private partnerships (PPPs). It exerts influence in three main ways: by exercising convening power, most notably in Davos where the most powerful representatives of the private sector meet with heads of governments and international organisations; by shaping ideas through its role as a think tank; by its engagement in PPPs, most recently as a founder member of CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations). But its organisational status is ambiguous, and it appears to lack accountability—even to its own members, which casts doubt on the legitimacy of such an influential organisation.

Suggested Citation

  • Desmond McNeill, 2023. "The World Economic Forum: An unaccountable force in global health governance?," Global Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, vol. 14(5), pages 782-789, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:glopol:v:14:y:2023:i:5:p:782-789
    DOI: 10.1111/1758-5899.13254
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Vincent Pouliot & Jean†Philippe Thérien, 2018. "Global Governance in Practice," Global Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, vol. 9(2), pages 163-172, May.
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