Impact of Regional Bodies on National Implementation of International Healthcare Norms

Abstract

The importance of this study lies in understanding the decisive influence regional convention bodies, operating under healthcare agreements, have on national legal implementations of international norms, especially given the complex interplay between diverse regional contexts and the binding force of international decisions. Existing research often overlooks how regional disparities and economic limitations in developing countries affect the practical realization of the right to health, revealing a significant gap in comprehending how international norms transition into enforceable national health policies. This study aims to analyze the role of these convention bodies in shaping and harmonizing health-related legal standards, addressing the challenges posed by economic and political variations among member states. Key findings indicate that, while these bodies enhance cooperation and standardization, their influence disproportionately affects developing economies, often imposing constraints on national policies. This research highlights the critical need for balanced international collaboration to ensure these norms support, rather than hinder, accessible healthcare in diverse economic contexts.