Trends in global health diplomacy and public-private partnerships in Japan

Abstract

After the formulation of “Japan's Strategy on Global Health Diplomacy” in 2013, the global health field was positioned as an important diplomatic issue for Japan. This paper provides an overview of the trends in global health diplomacy over the past 10 years, describes specific examples of public-private partnerships in Japan, the roles of major actors in global health diplomacy, and discusses challenges for public-private partnerships in Japan's global health diplomacy.

The Japanese government is making efforts to activate public-private partnerships in global health, with companies playing a more active role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, few Japanese companies effectively utilize public-private partnerships and integrate them into their corporate value within the global health sector. The government of Japan needs to develop individuals who are familiar with global health diplomacy and can support the appropriate connection between international organizations and companies. Simultaneously, it is essential for companies to train personnel capable of negotiating with international organizations in the field of global health. Understanding global health diplomacy is a particularly crucial element in promoting private company investments in the global health field, as exemplified by the “Impact Investment Initiative for Global Health: Triple I for Global Health” adopted at the Hiroshima Summit in 2023.

Furthermore, as global health diplomacy trends become increasingly complex, the Japanese government needs to carefully consider which international organizations to leverage its limited official development assistance more effectively and how to demonstrate Japan's presence in the global health arena. By proactively disseminating Japan's contributions and direction in global health diplomacy and engaging a wider participant, Japan can effectively collaborate with various stakeholders in the global health sector.