Wafi Ara Faruqui was a virtual Research Intern at UNU-CRIS within the Nature, Climate and Health Cluster under the supervision of Nidhi Nagabhatla
She is pursuing a Master’s in Global Health Risk Management and Hygiene Policies at the University of Bonn, Germany. Her internship will be supported by Erasmus+ Traineeship Programme.
During her Internship, Wafi explored the role of health diplomacy in Bangladesh with a special focus on its potential to enhance climate action and regional cooperation. She also examined how health diplomacy can build trust, address shared health challenges and contribute to achieve Sustainable Development Goals. A comparative analysis of health diplomacy frameworks was conducted by reviewing global and regional health organizations (WHO, UN agencies, SAARC), their policies, and the effectiveness of their diplomatic efforts.
Through her internship, she also integrated her medical expertise with policy-driven solutions focusing on climate change related mental health issues, psychological impact of climate vulnerable population and advocating for a sustainable health system in South Asia.