PHM-Exch> Sept Blog: The new philanthropies in world health affairs

[Claudio Schuftan]

Masters of our universe

* *

Bill Gates is currently the world’s second wealthiest person. Among all the
new philanthropists I have picked him because the Gates Foundation, with
assets of $US 30 billion, is by far the largest foundation whose main
interest is population health (1). He has become devoted to the UN
Millennium Development Goals.

When we consider the significance and impact of the ‘new philanthropies’,
it is fair and reasonable to think of Bill Gates and his foundation,
because of its scale and his presence. But there are others.





*                                         FOUNDATIONS*

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHERE THEY

AND THEIR PEOPLE COME FROM?

AND WHETHER THEIR INTENTIONS

ARE REALLY PRISTINE?


Institutional relationships in global health are a growing area of study,
but few if any previous analyses have examined private foundations. It is
almost as if analysts feel that foundations are beyond criticism or even
appraisal. Bill Gates certainly thinks so. The intentions and policies of
the directors of foundations are rarely considered. This is now beginning
to change.

The funders and directors of private foundations may well have altruistic
motives, but it is also true that there is financial benefit in setting up
a foundation. It also stands to reason that the policies of any foundation
will support or at least be consistent with the corporate policies and
personal ideology of the people who control the foundation.  Tax-exempt
private foundations and for-profit corporations increasingly engage in
relationships that can and do influence global health.


You can read the full blog by clicking on this URL.

http://wp.me/plAxa-1wb
Claudio
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