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One of the adverse affects of war on health that I think about often is the diversion of resources—be it monetary or otherwise—to the war effort. Resources that could be spent on providing public services are used instead to build and/or purchase weapons and support military efforts. In the context of my general studies the narrative goes a little like this:
A corrupt government in the developing country of X is siphoning resources to use to its own ends, and the rebel militia group is stealing and looting from civilians. The government does not allot appropriate percentages of the national wealth to public services such as clean water, sanitation systems, public health services, or safe transportation. This leads to unhealthy living conditions and lack of access to health services.
To be succinct.
But I’d like to draw your attention to a disconcerting parallel you might have noticed in the news as of late—Health reform in the U.S. The current U.S. war effort is one of the main reasons our deficit is the leviathan it is today. I was first confronted with how pervasive the issue of the deficit was three years ago when I was in D.C. lobbying for Congress’s support of peace efforts in northern
Massive deficit due to war = minimal capital for health systems.
Although one might argue that the situation in the
Has a war taken place that has not had this effect on health, in any nation rich or poor?
1 comment:
I think your theory not only applies to the adverse effects on health of the overall population, but many other important social service areas.
Like you, I have heard far to many people say we can't do A because the deficit is far too large. Rarely do people connect the idea that one program or war effort inhibits the ability to pay for another.
The war in Iraq is currently totaling around 700 billion.
Imagine what could be accomplished with 700 billion dollars. That is 700 billion that could repair and revamp our educations system. 700 billion to springboard a true green economy giving jobs to millions. 700 billion to send in foreign aid to build necessary infrastructure in emerging economies. 700 billion to initiate health care reform in the states. 700 billion to rebuild the United States. Just imagine.
Why people can't connect the consequences associated with each and every action is beyond me.
Ok, done with my politician speech...hahaha
I like your argument a lot. The diversion of resources from many of these countries creates a circular problem. Wars begin as a result of one groups inability to secure a job, adequate health and living conditions, etc.. As war rages resources are diverted to the war effort, leading to worsening conditions. Eventually culminating with another upset group and another war.
I will end now, but keep the blog posts coming. I like reading your posts.
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