Global Health Security (E.O. 13747)

Summary

Strengthens global efforts to prevent, find, and respond to infectious disease threats by working with other countries and organizations.

What problem does this solve?

A disease outbreak in one country can quickly become a threat to the whole world if nations are not ready to stop it. This order organizes U.S. government agencies to work together and with other countries to build stronger defenses against infectious diseases everywhere.

What does this order do?

Creates a new government council

Establishes the GHSA Interagency Review Council, led by the National Security Council staff, to coordinate the U.S. government's efforts on global health security.

Assigns specific jobs to federal agencies

Directs various federal departments, like State, Defense, and Health and Human Services, to make global health security a high priority and outlines their specific responsibilities.

Requires regular progress reports

Requires the new council to report annually to the President on progress and challenges, and to conduct a full review of the initiative by September 2019.

Promotes international partnerships

Directs U.S. agencies to work with international groups like the World Health Organization (WHO) and other countries to help them meet global health security goals.

Who does this affect?

U.S. federal agencies
Foreign governments and international health organizations
The American public

What is the real world impact?

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Prevents future pandemics

Strengthens global defenses against infectious diseases to stop outbreaks before they spread worldwide. This protects American lives, the economy, and national security from the huge damage a pandemic could cause.

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Strengthens U.S. global influence

By leading a global health initiative and providing assistance to other countries, the U.S. reinforces its role as a global leader and builds stronger diplomatic relationships, which can be used for other strategic goals.

When does this start?

This order takes effect immediately on November 4, 2016, and sets several deadlines for future reports and reviews.

Initial policy guidance

Within 30 days of the order (by December 4, 2016), the Council must provide its first policy guidance on implementing the GHSA.

Annual progress reports

The Council is required to develop a report every year on the progress and challenges in advancing the GHSA.

Five-year review of the GHSA

The Council must submit a complete review of the GHSA initiative to the President by September 2019, evaluating its progress and challenges over 5 years.