By Anaïse Boucher-Browning '22 and Manasi Singh '24
Even with it only being Day 2 here in Salzburg, we are amazed at the substantial progress already being made in grasping and advancing key themes and ideas essential for shaping a more effective preparedness plan for the next pandemic. Breaking away from the traditional central speaker model, the group of fellows are engaging in iterative conversations centered around sharing information and feedback in real time. These exchanges are laying a solid foundation for the development of key policy recommendations for designing vaccine procurement mechanisms.
This morning, we began with a panel discussion followed by a large group discussion focusing on the lessons learned from African countries' responses and experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic. With important voices present in the room, the fellows were able to share experiences utilizing the COVAX multilateral vaccine procurement mechanism in order to strategize preparations for future pandemics.
In the following sessions, we participated in “goldfish bowl” small group discussions. In each room, a small group (“the fishbowl”) led by one fellow discussed a few key topics while a larger group listened in. Fellows could move in and out of the fishbowl to engage in specific conversation topics as necessary, allowing for a more focused dialogue. Topics included integrated health systems, incentive structures, public trust, vaccine nationalism, regional manufacturing and proactive collaboration.
"Fishbowl" small group discussions
After a busy day of constructive conversations, the group took a break from the discussion circles to walk and talk with each other about key issues that had come up. On our walk, we enjoyed the beautiful scenery here at the Schloss Leopoldskron, where the Salzburg Global Seminar is held. Fun fact: the Schloss was where the iconic balcony and lake scenes of “The Sound of Music” were filmed!
Group photo from the lake walk
