The emergence of new infectious diseases such as the Ebola virus has always put pressure on the health care systems resulting in high fatality rates. This disease is contagious and whose transmission depends on the interaction between the human host and an agent (CDC, 2021). This virus is classified in the filioviridae family and is responsible for destroying the blood clotting cells and weakening the immune system when someone is infected. Ebola was a contagious epidemic that affected many nations, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Sierra Leone, Gabon, and Italy (CDC, 2021). Therefore, Ebola’s pathophysiology, its negative impact on the community and remediation are elaborated.
Analysis of the Ebola Virus Disease
Ebola is a deadly disease that exhibits symptoms such as fever, body aches, diarrhea, external and internal bleeding. The infection is transmissible through direct contact with body fluids such as saliva, sweat, and blood. The virus was traced in the Ebola River in DRC after natives consumed the African fruit bat, which was identified as a reservoir for the virus (CDC, 2021). Considering the fact that the disease is contagious, it spread rapidly to other nations in that year, such as England and later on to Cote D’Ivoire, Senegal, Mali and Nigeria. This data indicates that this outbreak was a global pandemic that put pressure on the health system.
Various epidemiological and risk factors contributed to the spread of this virus. Among them was a lack of preparedness to counter an emergency and public health literacy on the best preventative measures. When Ebola hit the DRC, the country was underdeveloped and lacked the specialized equipment and infrastructure to contain the spread of infection (CDC, 2021). For instance, the traditional prevention method such as holistic care was practiced, making the tracing process impossible. For example, during the initial outbreak of the virus, nurses in one of the hospitals known as Yambuku mission hospital reused needles when the numbers of infected people kept surging due to a lack of equipment to contain its spread (CDC, 2021). Additionally, the treatment, management and evidence-based interventions to maintain safety were unknown.
Public health literacy was also a significant challenge considering that citizens did not know the transmission channels and were overly exposed to the transmitters. For example, even after the fatality rate increased, people still hunted for wild meat for consumption and fulfilled cultural ceremonies and rituals (CDC, 2021). This interaction still exposed them to the infection resulting in more deaths and infections. In addition, cultural practices such as burials exposed the people to the virus since many bathed their dead by hand and dressed them for burial without putting on protective clothes (CDC, 2021). The international health organizations quickly disregarded such practices, but the new measures were not observed.
Ebola virus disease’s transmission route was the African fruit bat which carried the host, and when consumed, it caused the infection. Another transmission channel was the dead infected animal corpse which exposed the people to the virus when they came into contact with secretions, body fluids, and organs (CDC, 2021). Humans also transmitted the disease through direct contact with the infected persons’ blood, saliva, and mucous membrane.
The consequences of this infection on the community were detrimental, considering it deteriorated the people’s social, economic, and psychological wellness. When the infection rate became uncontrollable, many businesses closed down, and inflation became the new norm. In addition, most families could not fend for themselves, considering the majority of them lived below the poverty line (CDC, 2021). Such factors contributed to high rates of game meat hunting for survival, which worsened the situation. Another factor was a stigma for survivors who joined back after recovery since they were isolated and discriminated against as they were considered agents of transmission.
This negative stereotype affected mental wellness since many people became depressed for being isolated by the community. Additionally, the surge in the rate of infections put a strain on the healthcare system, with many health care providers experiencing burnout and uncertainty for their health, considering many hospital staff also got infected (CDC, 2021). The aftermath of this infection had consequences that took long before the country could recover from the negative impact. Fortunately, specific interventions could help curb the spread of the disease, including using the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR), enhancing public health literacy and promoting better health practices.
One viable reporting system is the IDSR that enables the health departments and concerned individuals to report any infectious disease outbreaks. The system is anonymous and actively operational, indicating that it is accessible to everyone. Other prevention strategies include public health literacy educating natives on the transmission channels, the symptoms, signs and possible interventions to ensure they seek help at the early stages of infection (CDC, 2021). Additionally, encouraging better health practices such as avoiding consumption of game meat, washing hands regularly, avoiding contact with infected individuals and places may help reduce future outbreaks (CDC, 2021). The government should also invest in personal protective equipment to help protect healthcare workers from infections when such pandemics occur. These interventions will ensure that people know the basics of maintaining safety to curb the spread during an outbreak.
The West Africa Ebola Outbreak of 2014-2016 was the largest Ebola virus outbreak in history, affecting multiple countries in West Africa. This outbreak, which began in Guinea in December 2013 and spread to Sierra Leone, Liberia, Nigeria, and Senegal, resulted in more than 28,000 confirmed cases, with over 11,000 deaths (CDC, 2017). The outbreak was officially declared over on June 9, 2016, after two full incubation periods had passed without any new cases. The outbreak was caused by the Zaire strain of the Ebola virus, the most deadly of the five known strains. According to the CDC (2017), the virus is spread primarily through contact with bodily fluids from an infected person, and the high mortality rate of the virus (up to 90%) heightened the outbreak’s severity.
Epidemiological Determinants and Risk Factors
The exact origin of the virus is unknown. However, several epidemiological determinants and risk factors are believed to have contributed to the outbreak. These include a lack of public health infrastructure, insufficient access to healthcare facilities, poor surveillance systems, and inadequate public health preparedness. Additionally, high poverty levels, overcrowded living conditions, and low levels of education contributed to an increased risk of the virus spreading. Other risk factors included the presence of bats, which are known to carry the virus, as well as non-compliance with preventive and control measures, such as the improper handling of corpses, contact tracing, and the lack of adequate protective equipment for healthcare workers.
Route of Transmission
The outbreak is thought to have started in December 2013 in Guinea, though the first case was not officially confirmed until March 2014. The virus is believed to have first infected wild animals before spreading to people, perhaps through contact with a contaminated bat or monkey flesh (Subissi et al., 2018). It then spreads through human-to-human contact, primarily through contact with bodily fluids. In some cases, it was also spread through contact with contaminated objects. Additionally, the virus was spread through funerals and burial ceremonies, where people had direct contact with the bodies of the deceased. The virus spread quickly, moving from Guinea to Liberia and Sierra Leone, as well as other countries in the region. It was also exported to the U.S., Spain, and the U.K.
Geographic Range
Geographically, the Ebola virus affected three countries in West Africa but spread to other regions due to traveling. According to experts, the Ebola virus is carried by either apes or fruit bats in the tropical woods of Africa and is transmitted to people by consuming raw, undercooked, or tainted meat (World Health Organization, 2019). Since 1976, when the first case was discovered in the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, there have been 22 outbreaks of Ebola, with the 2014-2016 outbreak being the deadliest (Huber et al., 2018). Since the Congo incident, West Africa has experienced the epidemic as well.
Impact of the Ebola Virus on the Community
The outbreak caused extensive economic damage, especially in poverty-stricken countries, as production and trade were disrupted, and many businesses and industries were forced to close down. It also significantly impacted the health system, with hospitals and other health facilities overwhelmed by the number of patients and the lack of medical personnel. The outbreak also had a significant impact on the community’s social fabric. Gatiso et al. (2018) state that individuals were stigmatized and that it affected the families of those who died from the virus, as they were often shunned and not allowed to participate in funerals and other social rituals.
According to Gatiso et al. (2018), reduced access to healthcare services can lead to an increased risk of contracting the virus and a lack of access to preventative care, early detection, and treatment. Erosion of trust in government institutions can lead to decreased confidence in the government’s ability to manage the outbreak and can also lead to social unrest as people become increasingly concerned and frustrated with the government’s response to the crisis. Loss of foreign investments can also have a severe economic impact on the community, resulting in job losses, reduced economic growth, and a decrease in the overall standard of living.
Reporting Protocol for an Outbreak
In the event of an outbreak, the following protocols should be followed to ensure our community members’ safety and to help contain the spread of the epidemic. According to CDC (2017), it is essential to identify the source of the epidemic and the risk factors that may have contributed to its occurrence. This can be done by collecting information about the affected individuals, their health history, and the environment in which the outbreak occurred. Once the source and risk factors have been identified, it is essential to report the attack to the appropriate public health authorities. In addition to reporting the outbreak, it is also essential to take steps to reduce the risk of further spread. Finally, monitoring the situation and updating the public health authorities as needed is crucial. This may include reporting any changes in the affected individual’s health, any new information about the outbreak, and any new risk factors.
One of the main ways to prevent widespread epidemics is through rapid detection. For any suspected or confirmed person under investigation instances, the questions and criteria laid out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention help in identification. Isolation, quarantine, and thorough checkups are used to safeguard the public. Further, using monoclonal antibodies as part of a therapy plan approved by the FDA can help in treatment.
Prevention Strategies
To prevent an outbreak of Ebola, several strategies can be employed. First, it is essential to ensure that all community members practice proper hygiene. This includes washing hands regularly with soap and water, avoiding contact with blood and body fluids and properly disposing of any medical waste. Second, it is essential to ensure that the necessary medical supplies are available to treat any potential cases of Ebola (Kamorudeen et al., 2020). This includes having access to personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and gowns. Medical practitioners should also be trained to use PPE to adequately protect themselves and their patients. Third, it is crucial to create awareness among the community about the dangers of Ebola and how it can be prevented. This can be done through public health campaigns that provide information to the public. Additionally, it is essential to make sure that people are aware of the signs and symptoms of Ebola so that they can seek medical help if they experience any of them. Finally, it is important to have a plan in place if an outbreak occurs. This plan should include ways to quickly identify and isolate potential cases, contact tracing, and other measures to contain its spread.
Preventative Measures
The most important of these measures is educating the public about the virus’s potential risks, signs, and symptoms. According to the World Health Organization (2019), good hygiene and sanitation habits are also essential. In addition, people should avoid traveling to areas where outbreaks are known to occur and should practice safe sex at all times. To further prevent the spread of the virus, it is essential to practice proper disposal of medical waste. Any items that have come into contact with a person infected with the virus should be disposed of properly. They are practicing proper food safety when handling and preparing food is also essential. Food should be cooked thoroughly, and all surfaces and utensils should be disinfected before and after each use. Finally, if a person is suspected of having Ebola, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Healthcare workers should use proper protective gear and follow protocols to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
Factors Affecting Scope and Severity
Several factors contributed to the spread of Ebola within West Africa. Firstly, lack of preparation since Ebola has never been encountered before. Even though Ebola was not a brand-new disease, it had never previously appeared in the impacted countries which resulted in challenges. Secondly, poor infrastructure networks following years of civil strife have left the affected countries with poor roads. That makes it difficult to transfer patients, hospitals that lack the resources to treat the disease, and inefficient communication systems.
Access to healthcare, population density, and the availability of resources can all play a role. In areas where healthcare access is limited or inadequate, cases of Ebola can go undetected and spread rapidly, leading to a more significant number of issues and a higher fatality rate. In areas with high population density, the virus can spread quickly through contact with infected individuals, leading to a more widespread outbreak. Furthermore, the availability of resources such as medical personnel, supplies, and preventive materials can also play a role in the scope and severity of an outbreak (Herbert, 2020). If resources are scarce, the effectiveness of containment and treatment efforts can be hampered, leading to a broader spread of the virus and a higher death toll.
Pre-disaster Mitigation Efforts
Various effective pre-disaster strategies can be adopted. These include developing infrastructure, building and equipping hospitals, ensuring political stability, and training healthcare providers. Regarding education, a learned person is more likely to abandon harmful customs, such as relying too much on traditional healers during epidemics. In the event of Ebola exposure, people need to know how to protect themselves and what to do next. There must be efficient mechanisms for identifying Ebola cases and dealing with them (Yang et al., 2021). When an Ebola epidemic occurs in another country, people still require access to reliable information.
Additionally, it is essential to maintain good hygiene practices, such as regular hand-washing and avoiding contact with contaminated surfaces and bedding. Health workers should also be adequately trained in the use of personal protective equipment, such as face masks, gloves, and gowns. It is also essential to maintain proper sanitation and waste disposal practices to reduce the spread of the disease. Finally, it is essential to rapidly identify and isolate any cases of Ebola and provide timely medical treatment to those affected.
Conclusion
The 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa was one of the deadliest in history. It had a significant impact on the economies and societies of the countries it affected, with many people suffering from psychological and physical trauma caused by the virus. While the outbreak may have been contained, the international community needs to remain vigilant and prepared for future outbreaks. Governments and organizations need to develop better systems for responding to emerging health threats and work to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure of affected countries to better respond to and prevent future outbreaks.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Ebola virus disease. Web.
Yang, M., Kumar, S., Wang, X., & Fry, M. J. (2021). Scenario-robust pre-disaster planning for multiple relief items. Annals of Operations Research, 1-26.
International Relations [IR] entail the study of various global issues and foreign affairs amongst states and non-state actors such as non-governmental organisations [NGOs], multinational corporations (MNCs), and inter-governmental organisations [IGOs]. These actors constitute the international system.
IR is a dynamic discipline due to the fast changing world. The contemporary society is characterised by numerous changes such as the high rate of globalisation, ebbing state system, newer international regimes, increase in cases of crisis within sovereign states, terrorism, and ethnicity (Ghosh 2013).
Different scholars have undertaken intensive research on international relations, which has led to the emergence of varied opinions on the scope of IR (Baylis 2013). Some of the studies have asserted that IR focuses on issue areas [trade relations, cultural exchanges, war], international security, conflict, and cooperation amongst states due to various issue areas and the international political economy (Ghosh 2013).
The high rate of globalisation has increased the interaction among different economies. Thus, businesses have a unique opportunity to maximise their profitability by investing in international business.
However, in order to develop optimal competitive advantage in international business, it is imperative for firms to develop effective strategies and collaborate with different actors. Studying international relations improves the effectiveness with which an organisation undertakes international business due to the improved understanding on how international business is intertwined with international relations.
Ruel (2012, p.16) emphasises that international entrepreneurs ‘need politicians and government representatives to get access to foreign markets and deal with legal issues across borders’. In an age where some different countries are undergoing remarkable political and economic changes, it is fundamental for businesses to develop effective international relations with respective governments in order to develop sufficient market intelligence.
Businesses are subject to different global issues, hence the need to integrate effective international relations in order to survive. One of the most notable cases relates to the recent outbreak of Ebola in March 2014. The outbreak was largely reported in some West African countries such as Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia.
The disease led to a major crisis whereby over 4,900 people were reported dead by 14th October 2014. This essay analyses the impact of the Ebola disease on international business.
Literature review
IR scholars have undertaken extensive studies, which have led to the development of different theoretical approaches. Some of the major theoretical approaches that have been proposed include constructivism, realism, and institutionalism.
Realism
This approach emphasises the existence of evaluating various elements, viz. national security, the use of force, and state power in understanding global politics. Cali (2010) argues that realists perceive states as the most critical players within the international system.
This perception is well illustrated by the view that realists often discuss international relations based on ‘state of nature’, which refers to the lack of sovereign authority. Thus, a state behaviour can best be understood by assessing the extent to which power is balanced.
Moreover, understanding state behaviour can also be attained by assessing various elements such as the economic performance, size of population, size of territory, and military strength. Acharya (2008, p.2) affirms that the ‘main goal of states is to ensure their survival and pursue their national interests, both of which may require them to seek greater power relative to their neighbours’.
The realism theory is based on the assumption that war and conflicts are inevitable (Brecher & Harvey 2002). Furthermore, the theory argues that international relations are based on the relative gains of the respective states rather than establishing a win-win situation.
Therefore, the realism approach affirms that understanding the extent to which a state has balanced power is the most effective method of understanding world politics (Shareen 2007). The compliance or defiance to international norms and laws amongst states that have adopted a realist approach depends on their self-interest.
Cali (2010, p.29) asserts that states ‘do not respond primarily to legal rules, but rather to practical considerations determined by the power they have vis-a-vis other states’. Thus, if the international laws formulated are beneficial, they tend to comply and defy if the benefits diminish (Cali 2010).
The realist theory best explains why the US is extensively committed to the ‘war on terror’ approach that was initiated during the Bush administration. In its commitment to ‘war on terror’, the US has largely ignored the International Humanitarian Law, which was enacted during the Geneva Convention.
Institutionalism
This theory argues that the level of cooperation amongst states depends on their self-interests. The cooperation is stimulated by the need to attain a particular goal, which the states cannot achieve individually. The cooperation between respective states is enhanced by the establishment of different institutions, which are charged with the responsibility of executing predetermined tasks such as trade.
Additionally, the institutions improve the effectiveness with which states undertake interstate negotiations as they provide the rapport for such negotiations. The institutions formed are formalised with time, thus leading to the establishment of an International Organisation [IO]. Some of the classic examples of such institutions include the World Trade Organisation [WTO], the Conference for Security and Cooperation in Europe [OSCE], and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade [GATT] (Cali 2010).
The member states formulate comprehensive rules and regulations, which all the state actors follow. The proponents of institutionalism affirm that the establishment of such institutions fosters the development of a high level of transparency, reduction of the risk involved in international business, and minimisation of transaction costs.
The interaction amongst various states leads to the establishment of a long-term relationship amongst the member states. Berejikian (2004) asserts that a high level of reciprocity is established, hence promoting cooperation and stability (Cali 2010).
The theory further argues that the institutions established gain extensive power and identity. Consequently, they constrain state behaviour even if the state members wish to deviate from the formulated rules and regulations. This aspect shows that the likelihood of the established institutions going beyond serving the member states self-interests is high.
Constructivism
Brecher and Harvey (2002, p. 111) posit that constructivism ‘focuses on the role of culture, norms, and ideas in world politics’. Similar to realists, constructivists cite the state as the core player in the international system. Furthermore, constructivists assert that state’s interests are subject to change.
The change might be spurred by the intensive interaction between states. The interaction between states leads to the development of a learning process. Therefore, the theory postulates that international institutions are critical promoters of state norms and identities. Furthermore, international institutions contribute significantly in restructuring the preferences of various state actors (Kydd 2005).
For example, countries that have joined the European Union have a mandate to accept the Copenhagen Criteria. Some of the aspects that the criteria advocate include human rights observance and the adoption of democratic systems of governance. Additionally, the member states have a duty to incorporate a market economy (Baik 2012).
The theory further asserts that the IOs such as transnational advocacy networks and NGOs may influence the behaviour of state members. For example, the international organisations may require the member states to comply with specific norms.
The first step according to constructivism theory entails the formulation of promotion of the desired international norms (Webber 2005). Secondly, the norms are institutionalised whereby the state actors are required to follow the established norms.
The third stage entails socialisation, whereby the state actors accept the established norms. Therefore, the establishment of the desired state behaviour follows a ‘norm cascade’ (Joffe 2012). One of the most important stages in the ‘norm cascade’ entails signing of international treaties and international conventions.
The member states may be compelled to sign the international treaties by instrumental reasons. However, this process might culminate in a significant change in state behaviour.
Case study
The Ebola epidemic has claimed the lives of over 4,900 citizens in West Africa alone since January 2014 (CNN 2014). Furthermore, the disease has affected most economies around the world. The most affected countries include Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia. The first case of Ebola hemorrhagic fever was recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1976.
The disease is highly infectious, which explains the significantly large number of deaths that have been recorded. The incubation period ranges between 2 to 21 days. Some of the countries that have been affected by the outbreak include Liberia, Guinea, South Sudan, Uganda, Ivory Cost, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The WHO asserts that there is no specific vaccine for the disease, which makes it a continuing case. Thus, patients are offered supportive care, which increases its fatality to 90% (CNN 2014). Due to the high rate of international cooperation, for example through trade, the disease has spread to other countries such as Spain and the United States.
Four cases and 1 death have been reported in the US. Two of these cases originated from the US, while the others originated from Liberia and Guinea (CNN 2014).
PEST analysis
In order to undertake international business successfully in the wake of the Ebola epidemic, it is imperative for businesses to develop extensive understanding of the prevailing external environment. One of the models that businesses can utilise in understanding business environment entails the PEST model.
Political environment
According to Prasad (2010), changes in the political environment have a significant impact on the degree a country’s political stability, hence the degree of political risk faced by international businesses. For example, the occurrence of civil disturbance or war might affect the level of cooperation amongst countries.
Such instability might also affect an organisation’s capacity to invest in international business. Additionally, a change in government policy may affect international trade positively or negatively. For example, if a particular country lifts import quotas on certain products, other economies exploit this opportunity by increasing the volume of exports of the specific products to that country (Williams & Green 2009).
Economic environment
According to Pailwar (2009), businesses are subject to economic cycles, which affect a country’s economic performance. Economic factors have a significant impact on international business operations. One of the most significant economic factors relates to national interest rates.
A negative change in the rate of interest rate has adverse effects on an organisation’s ability to maximise its cash flows. Furthermore, change in the prevailing economic environment might affect an organisation’s ability to implement its expansion strategies.
For example, the recent global economic crisis led to a significant reduction in the level of profitability amongst most international businesses (Madura 2014). Due to the high rate of globalisation, most economies have appreciated the need for economic integration, as well illustrated by the various trade agreements and regional trading blocs that have been established. Examples of such trading blocs include the European Union and the GATT.
Social environment
The social business environment is comprised of the society’s lifestyles, beliefs, norms, trends, and habits. Additionally, the sociological environment is also comprised of a country’s population structure. For example, a high birth rate presents international businesses with an opportunity to sustain their future growth due to the potential increment in demand for products and services.
However, a high death rate is a threat to international business due to a reduction in product demand (Bensoussan & Fleisher 2013). Furthermore, international businesses are also affected by the prevailing income gaps within society. A high-income gap may lead to a reduction in international businesses’ capacity to maximise profitability (Bensoussan & Fleisher 2013).
Technological environment
The past few decades have been characterised with extensive technological changes. Subsequently, businesses are obligated to keep abreast with technological advancement in order to achieve and sustain long-term competitiveness.
The technological advancements currently being witnessed present a classic opportunity for businesses to increase their customer base by focusing on delivering unique customer experience. Failure to respond to technological changes might lead to a decline in market share due to the inability to respond to customers’ needs.
Holistic view of the case
Impact on individuals and businesses
The PEST analysis above shows that international businesses are subject to different macro environmental forces. These forces emanate from different issues and they affect the respective business environments, hence the businesses’ operations.
The case of Ebola outbreak has affected international businesses in a number of ways. First, the epidemic has led to the death of over 4,900 people. Additionally, most businesses in West Africa have halted operations in an effort to curb the spread of the virus.
Despite the fact that most businesses have been closed as a preventative measure, the crisis has led to remarkable changes in behaviours amongst individuals. The level of fear amongst citizens has increased tremendously. Thus, the level of demand for goods and services amongst individuals has declined due to the decline in domestic income.
Additionally, some countries such as Liberia have experienced a significant reduction in the occupancy rates due to the declining number of incoming flights. Consequently, most hotels have laid off employees in an effort to minimise the cost of operation (World Bank 2014).
Impact on states
According to a report released by the World Bank shows that the most affected countries, viz. Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone could lose approximately $97 million if they collaborate in containing the epidemic by 2015 or $807 million if the Ebola virus is not controlled adequately (World Bank 2014).
Furthermore, the World Bank asserts that the rate of economic growth in Guinea has been revised downwards from 4.5% to 2.4%. Thus, there is a high probability of the country experiencing a poor economic performance, hence reducing individual consumers’ purchasing power.
One of the sectors that have adversely been affected in Guinea is the agriculture sectors. The World Bank (2014) affirms that the cocoa and palm oil farming has been adversely affected following exodus to villages. A significant proportion of the country’s palm oil and cocoa exports are produced with the help of village farms workers.
Ebola has also affected Sierra Leone’s economy, which was advancing towards becoming a middle-income status. Prior to the occurrence of the epidemic, the country’s annual growth rate was estimated to be 11.3%. However, the annual growth rate is estimated to be 8% by the end of 2014 and 0% in 2015 (World Bank 2014).
In an effort to curb the spread of the virus, most West African countries where deaths as a result of Ebola have been reported especially Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea have been affected by international travel bans imposed by various countries and companies.
For example, the British Airways temporarily halted its flights to West Africa. Subsequently, the company experienced significant reduction in its sales revenue generated from international operations. Furthermore, this action affected the level of tourism to and from West Africa, hence the country’s economic underperformance (Caulderwood 2014).
The imposition of travel bans to West African countries by various governments around the world shows that most countries have adopted a realism theory in dealing with the crisis. This aspect arises from the view that the travel ban imposed by most countries to some of the West African countries has been instigated by self-interests.
Markets have been closed, thus affecting the citizen’s livelihoods. Additionally, foreigners working in different economic sectors have fled the country due to the fear of contracting Ebola.
Impact on international cooperation
The Ebola outbreak has increased the level of cooperation amongst different states in fighting the epidemic. The international community emphasises the need for cooperation in fighting the disease. The high levels of cooperation have been enhanced by the infectious nature of the disease and the high rate of fatality.
Most developed and developing countries such as the US and China have emphasised their commitment to assisting the affected countries deal with the situation. One of the areas of cooperation amongst the international community relates to research on how to deal with the crisis.
For example, the international community has provided extensive technological support to the affected countries on how to prevent the spread of Ebola crisis. Additionally, the international community is collaborating with the affected countries in providing treatment to victims. Therefore, the international community has adopted a constructivist approach in dealing with the epidemic.
Conclusion
This paper illustrates that the international business is closely associated with international relations. In order to deal with the various environmental factors successfully, it is imperative for businesses to appreciate the contribution of various actors.
The contribution of the various actors such as states, NGOs, and other International Organisations affects the nature of strategy adopted by the international businesses. Due to the recent Ebola outbreak, most international businesses have limited their business transactions with some of the affected West African countries.
The case study illustrates that countries adopt different approaches, viz. realism, institutionalism, and constructivism in dealing with crises.
Reference List
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Baik, T. 2012, Emerging regional human rights systems in Asia, Cambridge University Press, New York.
Bensoussan, B. & Fleisher, C. 2013, Analysis without paralysis; 12 tools to make better strategic decisions, FT Press, New Jersey.
Berejikian, J. 2004, International relations under risk: framing state choice, State University of New York, Albany.
Baylis, J. 2013, The globalisation of world politics; an introduction to international relations, Oxford University Press, Oxford.
Brecher, M. & Harvey, F. 2002, Realism and institutionalism in international studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Cali, B. 2010, International law for international relations, Oxford University Press, New York.