INTEGRATING RESPONSES TO INEQUALITIES AND DISEASE BURDENS 1.2
A social justice approach to health Policymakers need to make health a political priority by taking a social justice approach to investments in health and care – and the ILO is
when people are sick, and health care without hardship – as outlined in the International Labour Organization’s social security conventions. Despite progress in past decades, disparities and inequities in health persist, many of which are linked to the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live and age. These are the social determinants of health, which influence the health outcomes of individuals and communities. These inequities have been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic and the multiple and interconnected crises we are currently facing – climate change, conflicts and global cost of living challenges. For these reasons, we need a social justice approach to health that addresses inequalities, achieves more inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development, ensures healthy lives and promotes well-being for all, as set out in Sustainable Development Goal 3. The ILO promotes social justice in health through its decent work mandate. Its work on social protection, occupational safety and health, and decent working conditions for healthcare workers are key areas. A CRUCIAL STEP Extending social protection to all is a crucial step towards achieving health equity and access to adequate health
developing a coalition that encourages a wide range of multilateral bodies and stakeholders to do just that H ealth is a basic human right. It is an essential requirement for the achievement of decent work and a fulfilling life. However, health goes far beyond having access to health care that is timely, affordable and acceptable. It also relates to factors that ensure our overall well-being. These include access to safe drinking water and sanitation, safe food, adequate nutrition and housing, healthy working and environmental conditions, health education and information, income and social protection, and gender equality. Other important dimensions of health and well-being relate to income security
By Gilbert F Houngbo, director-general, International Labour Organization
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Health: A Political Choice – From Fragmentation to Integration
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