Revisiting the role of civil society in responses to infectious disease outbreaks: a proposed framework and lessons from a COVID-19 vaccine equity coalition in Uganda

Abstract

Civil society organizations (CSOs) a diverse set of non-governmental, advocacy and community-based groups have historically played transformative roles in advancing health equity. In perhaps the best-known example, CSO campaigns, policy advocacy and scientific partnerships have proven crucial in accelerating the development and global accessibility of treatments for HIV, altering the course of HIV infection programmes and contributing to millions of lives being saved. As public health researchers and advocates focused on infectious diseases in Uganda, we have seen how ongoing action from CSOs such as The AIDS Support Organization, which cares for 100 000 Ugandans living with HIV while leading additional testing, counselling and public awareness efforts has brought the country within the reach of achieving the UNAIDS 95-95- 95 targets. Thanks to their established relationships with constituents and proximate understandings of local realities, CSOs are uniquely positioned to mobilise community’s behind evidence-based public health recommendations, including in settings where more distal governmental and academic institutions may struggle to make an impact.