Contemporary societies face a rise in systemic risks that directly affect global health: pandemics and other infectious threats, extreme weather events, biochemical and nuclear accidents, humanitarian crises, and complex social disruptions. These threats do not act in isolation; instead, they are interconnected and amplify their impacts on health systems, economies, and vulnerable communities. Recent experience has shown that preparedness for health crises can no longer be limited to reactive responses but requires anticipation, intersectoral coordination, and robust governance mechanisms based on scientific evidence.
ISGlobal addresses this challenge through a comprehensive approach that combines research, public policy advice, and collaborative action with national and international partners. Its PR3 (Preparedness, Response, Recovery, and Resilience) model integrates the entire crisis cycle, from preparation and early monitoring to recovery and the strengthening of social resilience. This framework is also implemented through initiatives such as P3R3 Global, aimed at generating applied knowledge to strengthen health systems in the face of complex health emergencies. From a “all-hazards” perspective, we develop analytical tools, policy recommendations, and research projects that promote robust data systems, effective risk communication, and informed, participatory decision-making processes.
The ultimate goal is to translate scientific knowledge into concrete decisions that reinforce global health security. ISGlobal works with public institutions, scientific networks, and international organizations to promote more resilient policies, advance early warning systems, and reduce inequalities in preparedness for future crises. In this way, it contributes to building health systems and societies better able to anticipate risks, respond quickly, and recover sustainably in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
Key Publications
- How can we be better prepared for the next public health crisis? Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic
- Preparedness and response for all types of risks series: How to be prepared for all types of public health risks? / How to address the effects of economic downturns on systemic health crises? / How to prepare for and respond to radiological events in armed conflicts? / Why is it urgent to reach a pandemic agreement? A proposal for the European position / Are we prepared for the next pandemic? A global perspective / Extreme weather events: how do we prepare for an increasingly hostile climate? / Learning from history: how should a country prepare for an industrial disaster? / From scientific evidence to policy decision-making: how to act better and faster during health emergencies
- Recommendations and procedures to improve preparedness and response to a radiation accident
Highlighted Translation Projects and Initiatives
- P3R3 Global
- Organization of symposia related to PR3
- Epidemiological studies for Preparedness and Response to Public Health and Environmental Crises and Disasters. International Society for Environmental Epidemiology, Athens, September 2022
- Deep dive session: Preparedness and response to health emergencies – The role of cities. G-STIC (Global Sustainable Technology and Innovation Community), Rio de Janeiro, February 2023. ISGlobal builds partnerships in Brazil
