Last week saw the sudden departure of Mark Dybul as the US Global AIDS Coordinator, in charge of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). In an Editorial published early Online today and in this week's edition, The Lancet says it is imperative that a decision on Dybul's replacement is not made in haste.
It says: "The incoming Coordinator should be chosen based on his experience and ability to do the job. Essential credentials for the position include: bold and visionary leadership and expertise in global health at the scientific, policy, and implementation levels; high-level global management experience in collaboration with political, technical, and civil society groups and those living with HIV/AIDS; a commitment to increase coordination with other HIV/AIDS donors, the private sector, and foundations thereby reducing duplication and increasing efficiency; a proven track record of making ambitious decisions independent of political or special interest considerations; and a commitment to do more to integrate disease-specific responses with health systems strengthening."
The Editorial concludes: "The new appointee will have an enormous effect on the lives of millions of people worldwide, which is why it is imperative that the move to fill this position is not made in haste. We urge the new administration to pursue a competitive merit-based selection process for the new Coordinator, one that involves input from all stakeholders comprising representatives including scientists and civil society. Not to do so would go against the spirit of trans-parency and inclusiveness that President Obama has sig-nalled is the hallmark of his administration."
For full Editorial, see: http://press.thelancet.com/PEPFAR.pdf
The Lancet