We are an international research group focusing on generating new data and analysis to inform complex decisions regarding the adoption and lifting of cross-border measures to control pandemics.
We aim to support global coordination in the use of cross-border measures, including the role of the WHO International Health Regulations (2005), as the basis for strengthening future global outbreak response and pandemic preparedness.
Restricting movements across borders during outbreaks is a longstanding practice to control communicable disease transmission. However, evidence of measures such as travel advisories, border closures and trade restrictions effectively protecting public health remains decidedly mixed. Studies of past outbreaks have found that travel restrictions have limited impact on the trajectory of an outbreak, except within specific contexts, and may even prove to be counterproductive to public health efforts.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtually all countries have now adopted international travel restrictions, with some beginning to lift them. Where cases of infection are rising again, prompting fears of a second or third wave of coronavirus cases, countries are considering re-introducing border restrictions.
Our research focuses on generating new data and analysis to inform complex decisions regarding the adoption and lifting of cross-border measures to control pandemics. Read more about our projects and case studies.
Lee K. The Global Governance of Emerging Zoonotic Diseases. Council on Foreign Relations. 13 February 2023.
Lee K, Piper J, Fang J. Using Risk Analysis to Shape Border Management: A Review of Approaches during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Migration Policy Institute. 24 January 2023.
Lee, K. Strengthening the science and politics of border management in pandemic preparedness and response. Political Determinants of Health Collective Blog, 7 June 2022.
