EFTA00584265

Notes on Center related to peace and health 
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In an inter-connected world, many challenges are inter-linked. For example, 
improving health depends on stability and development. 
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Peace is the primary condition for health. It is also a prerequisite for development. 
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At the same time, healthier societies are less vulnerable, and therefore in a better 
position to grow, prosper and implement the Millennium Development Goals. 
• 
Therefore, peace is necessary for health, and health is needed for peace. 
• 
This point has been realized by a few governments, international organizations, and 
philanthropists. But their initiatives have been disjointed. 
• 
Short-term independent initiatives are necessary but not sufficient. 
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In order to be sustainable, preventive and remedial measures need to be part of a 
coordinated, comprehensive and long-term global process that unites all 
stakeholders and ensures a multi-disciplinary and evidence-based approach. 
• 
To be effective and sustainable, this process should be centralized and 
institutionalized. 
• 
At the moment, no such institution exists. That is why the International Peace 
Institute (IPI) proposes to create one. 
• 
IPI has more than forty years of experience analysing conflicts and other global 
threats as well as peace-related issues. It also has convening power to bring together 
experts from a wide range of backgrounds to discuss international problems and seek 
innovative, multi-lateral solutions. 
• 
IPI is interested in partnering with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, because of 
the latter's commitment to, and engagement in, global efforts to improve global 
health and development. 
• 
The proposal is to create a new inter-disciplinary Center in Vienna looking in 
particular at promoting peace through health, and health through peace. 
EFTA00584265