Health diplomacy as an aid to human security

The Balkan Region demonstrates that it is much easier to enter the conflict zone than to leave it; that peace building efforts and the promotion of reconciliation are more difficult. Reconciliation is a voluntary act hindered by national, inter-ethnic and religious differences as well by limited economic development, high rates of unemployment, crime, and corruption. In order to succeed, linkages should be reestablished with appropriate development, democratic notions strengthened and scientific ideas utilised. Health and access to health services are basic conditions for economic development and they constitute a common denominator for population vulnerability reduction.   Life’s circumstances are compromised without health, which can be reversed by societal development, democratic government and regional peace. The World Health Organization and the Council of Europe have called attention to the growth of population vulnerability and declining health status in the Balkans  have targeted specific improvements within a framework of social cohesion. In the Dubrovnik Pledge regional Ministers of Health affirmed their resolve to reduce population vulnerability while the Skopje Declaration on public health, peace and human rights [SEE Public Health Network] highlighted a resolve to use public health in the enhancement of human security introduced by the UNDP[1984]. In parallel, the European Center for Peace and Development, Belgrade, of the University for Peace established by the United Nations, supported by the Japanese authorities is tasked to contribute to peace promotion, regional development and international cooperation. Efforts are underway to promote a shared vision for a   productive, diverse and fair Balkan society through actions relating to human security and the greater use of the concept of health diplomacy within its Balkans 21st Century initiative.