Recap — Letting the Fox Build the Hen House: Private Sector Influence at the WHO

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Published on February 17, 2026

On Wednesday, September 24, Dr. Tracey Wagner-Rizvi, a Research Associate from the Global Strategy Lab discussed the private sector influence of substantive initiatives at the WHO (World Health Organization) and the development of the WHO’s Framework of engagement with non-State actors (FENSA).

Dr. Wagner-Rizvi began the seminar by giving a brief overview of WHO and its unique political legitimacy, and in theory, its democratic representation and accountability. However, because of funding caps by Member States and a changing global health architecture, the organization is experiencing financing gaps and needing to look elsewhere for program funding and partnership.

She continued by describing the commercial influence of corporate actors in shaping the political environment, and ultimately, substantive policy. The so-called “corporate playbook” influences these substantive initiatives to serve the interests of large corporations. Dr. Wagner-Rizvi highlighted the long-game implications of these influences, which is shaping paradigms that are more conducive to the goals of these corporations, and providing evidence of commercial influence on policymaking with two examples: commercial milk formula for babies and soda. The presentation also discussed the WHO’s Framework of Engagement with Non-State Actors (FENSA), including the potential risks of institutionalizing the influence of private authority.

To conclude, Dr. Wagner-Rizvi discussed possible solutions, including the need to transform the global health architecture. There is a need to protect and promote the public interest and common good, which should stem from strengthening democratic processes and structures.  

Connect with Tracey Wagner-Rizvi.

Watch the full seminar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JEXkx2yYjk

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