New Zealand Aid Tools Sectors, Themes and Issues 

Health: The Role of Health in Economic Development

Tool Summary

Draft: June 2009 Author: DSAED Research Analyst
Approved: 06/07/2010 For help contact: Senior Health Advisor, DSAED
Next review due: 06/07/2011

Business Process Owner: Senior Health Advisor, DSAED 

About this document

This document discusses recent research investigating health’s role in fostering economic development.

It is intended for use by MFAT staff managing the New Zealand Aid Programme.

Please contact the author with any queries or feedback.

Summary

Good health is an important development outcome in its own right. Illness brings suffering, and healthier lives are likely to be longer and more fulfilling. These facts alone provide a rationale for development work that improves people’s health. Yet improved health also brings broader benefits, including enhanced economic development.