Subsidiarity as a Structural Principle of Global Health Law

AJIL Unbound 2026 Open access

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Authors: Thana Cristina de Campos, Daniel C. Wainstock
DOI: 10.1017/aju.2026.10061
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Subsidiarity, a principle of justice rooted in law and political philosophy, remains largely overlooked in contemporary debates in international law. Its central idea is that decisions should be made as close as possible to those affected, with higher authorities intervening only when necessary. 1 This approach balances local agency with supportive solidarity, promoting cooperation that is both participatory and responsive. 2

Fields of Study & Subjects

International Law and Human Rights Public health and occupational medicine Legal Health Environmental and COVID-19 Challenges

Publication details

Journal / source
AJIL Unbound
Volume
120
Pages
123–128
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN