Beyond Polio: A Workforce Ready for Any Challenge

Polio eradication professionals are more than just public health experts. They are seasoned crisis managers, skilled diplomats, and community mobilizers. From navigating complex geopolitical landscapes to building strong partnerships with governments, NGOs, and local communities, polio professionals have demonstrated exceptional multitasking skills. They have been at the frontline of an emergency response, where quick thinking, adaptability, and resourcefulness are crucial. These attributes make them ideal candidates for a wide range of roles within UN agencies. Whether it’s disaster response, humanitarian aid, education initiatives, or development programs, the polio workforce has the experience and skills to contribute meaningfully. As the world turns its attention to new global challenges, from climate change to humanitarian crises, the expertise of this workforce becomes increasingly relevant.

A Historical Lesson: The Smallpox Workforce

The eradication of smallpox in the 20th century was a monumental achievement. However, the aftermath serves as a cautionary tale for the global community. This grandeur achievement was followed by a regrettable loss of institutional knowledge. As we approach the end of the polio eradication, we must learn from this history. The polio workforce should not be seen as disposable but as a valuable asset that can be redeployed across different UN agencies. Their experience in managing emergency situations, leading large-scale initiatives, and working under pressure makes them highly adaptable to various roles within the UN system. Let us prevent a recurrence of this historical oversight.

The COVID-19 Response

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role that experienced public health professionals play in global crises. In Pakistan, the polio eradication workforce was quickly mobilized to support the COVID-19 response. Their expertise in surveillance, detection, response coordination, and community and mosque mobilization were instrumental in managing the pandemic. This swift adaptation to a new and unprecedented challenge demonstrates the polio workforce’s ability to apply their skills to a wide range of global issues. This adaptability is not limited to health emergencies. The polio workforce’s experience in training and capacity building, their deep connections with local communities, and their ability to operate in challenging and security-compromised environments make them suitable for roles in areas such as disaster management, nutrition, child protection, refugee assistance, education, and sustainable development.

A Resource for All UN Agencies

The professionals who have driven the polio eradication effort are a unique and highly skilled group whose expertise should not be confined to a single issue. As the world prepares for the final chapter in the fight against polio, it is imperative that UN agencies recognize the potential of this workforce to contribute across a broad spectrum of interventions. Polio eradication should not be the end of the road for these dedicated individuals. Instead, their skills, experience, and dedication should be seen as a valuable resource for UN agencies working on diverse challenges worldwide. By integrating the polio workforce into various roles, the UN can ensure that these professionals continue to make significant contributions to global development, humanitarian efforts, and beyond.