The Role of Arts in Health Policy Advocacy

Nyakairu Doreen G.

Faculty of Science and Technology Kampala International University Uganda 

ABSTRACT

The paper investigates the critical role that the arts play in health policy advocacy, focusing on how artistic expression improves communication, encourages emotional engagement, and boosts public health programs. Health policy advocates can use artistic disciplines such as visual arts, theatre, and dance to engage with various audiences, highlight serious health challenges, and catalyse societal change. The arts provide a unique platform for marginalised people to express their health experiences, bridging the divide between public health data and community awareness. This paper examines successful case studies and discusses the obstacles to incorporating artists into health policy advocacy, specifically issues about tokenism and budget restrictions. Finally, this interdisciplinary approach shows how art can influence health policy and public perception.

Keywords: Arts in health, Health policy advocacy, Creative expression, Public health communication, Marginalized voices.

CITE AS: Nyakairu Doreen G. (2024). The Role of Arts in Health Policy Advocacy. NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LAW, COMMUNICATION AND LANGUAGES, 4(3):1-4. https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJLCL/2024/4.3.1400