When there is health…

The number of international rankings comparing the quality of life of different countries is now overwhelming. As in a sports ranking, governments and civil societies are proud of a point higher in indices of inclusive development, education, peace, freedom, crime, fair justice, youth employment, forest management, carbon emissions or absorption, gender equality, participatory democracy, and dozens of other rankings of good governance of common goods. Most of these variables are correlated: it's rare for a country to make great strides in one sector without also improving others. But one sector stands out above all others as a hallmark of governments and civil societies that truly put people at the center of good practices for progress, rather than just expressing slogans: public health.

Tourists in Asia, forced to be superficial observers, are left speechless when they enter a hospital, a street restroom, or a school: "It feels like being on another planet," many say. But the high quality of public health services goes far beyond what is apparent at first glance. From nutrition education to food control, from health services in remote villages to disease prevention, from emergency rooms to services for the elderly and wellness, for years global rankings have assigned top positions to four or five Asian countries: Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. It is no coincidence that the quality of health has a significant impact on economic performance. Singapore consistently ranks high in global health indices and is recognized for its efficient and comprehensive healthcare system. Japan is a leader in longevity and has a solid healthcare infrastructure, with a strong focus on prevention. South Korea has a high level of advanced public health technology and highly competent medical professionals. The healthcare systems of Taiwan and Thailand are considered among the best in the world, with a particular focus on accessibility and quality of care for all.

Certainly, the ancient proverb, "Where there's health, there's everything," expressed too strongly the complexity of development. But as with any complex issue, a simple and understandable indicator can help clarify all the other transformations necessary for the peace and happiness of a people. In Asia, for several decades, the political class has understood the opening note of every election campaign symphony: "If public health worsens, those in power lose it."


Sandro Calvani
NP June / July 2025