Strengthening the PHSM Evidence Base: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Let’s Be Honest—We Weren’t Fully Ready Last Time

Remember the early days of COVID-19? When we all scrambled for information, trying to figure out whether wearing a mask really helped or if schools should shut down? Yeah, that chaos wasn’t just on the streets—it was in the science too.

Here’s the thing: Public Health and Social Measures (PHSM) like lockdowns, travel bans, and distancing rules were rolled out fast, but the evidence behind them? Patchy, at best.

So now, there’s a global push—finally—to strengthen that evidence base. And guess what? Non-State Actors (NSAs) like NGOs, universities, and research groups are not just applauding—they’re actively pushing for it.

Why Strengthening the PHSM Evidence Base Actually Matters

This isn’t just academic jargon. Strengthening the evidence base means:

• •
  Governments make smarter, faster decisions in future crises.
• •
  Measures like lockdowns won’t feel like random rules—they’ll be backed by real, transparent data.
• •
  Public trust grows when people see that actions are based on facts, not fear.

Think of it like building a better playbook before the next big game. You don’t wait till the first inning to figure out your strategy.

The Role of Non-State Actors: Quietly Powerful

While headlines love to focus on politicians, non-state actors have been working behind the scenes—funding research, publishing policy recommendations, and keeping global conversations alive.

During COVID, groups like the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security and Médecins Sans Frontières brought clarity when governments faltered. They're now backing this resolution, saying: “Enough guesswork—let’s get real about the data.”

So, What’s Next?

A draft resolution is on the table at the World Health Assembly. If passed, it could mean:

• •
  More investment in PHSM research
• •
  Transparent international data-sharing
• •
  Stronger collaboration between state and non-state actors

Sounds like a no-brainer, right?

FAQ: Quick Answers for Curious Minds

What are PHSMs? Public Health and Social Measures like masking, lockdowns, and distancing used to control disease spread.

Why are non-state actors important here? They often fund independent research and push for transparency in global health policies.

Will this resolution change anything immediately? Not overnight—but it sets the groundwork for a better, evidence-based response in future crises.