In simple terms, the statement suggests that countries do not maintain friendships but rather act based on their own interests and security needs. It implies that a nation will only take significant action against an epidemic if it perceives the threat as posing a direct risk to its national security or well-being.
The deeper meaning of this quote delves into the complex nature of international relations, emphasizing the self-serving motives that drive state behavior. Nations often prioritize their own survival and economic stability over altruistic efforts for global health. This perspective highlights how crises like epidemics are seen through a lens of potential impact on national interests rather than humanitarian concerns alone. It underscores the idea that without a perceived threat to its sovereignty or security, a country may not be inclined to invest significant resources in addressing issues abroad.
Joanne Liu is a Canadian physician and global health advocate who has worked extensively with Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders). She served as the International President of MSF from 2014 to 2018, during which time she became well-known for her vocal advocacy on global health issues, including the fight against epidemics like Ebola and Zika. Her insights into international health policy reflect a deep understanding of how geopolitical considerations influence responses to public health crises around the world.
