Healthcare in Oman Between Past and Present Achievements, Human Security and the COVID – 19 Pandemic

Abstract

This article results from research on the most recent effects of the COVID19 pandemic in the Sultanate of Oman. Interdependence is investigated along with the inherent fragility of a health system made more vulnerable by the high reliance on migrants. As part of the history of modern Oman the health sector development was pursued with huge reforms during Sultan Qaboos’ reign (1970-2020): the achievements of those years are valued and studied, against the backdrop of Omani cultural roots and peculiar social environment. The regional dimension emerges with the interregional networks of this country. The issue of human security comes to the fore and it is even more evident in relation with the challenges posed by the health emergency in 2020. At the beginning of Sultan Haitham’s reign, new efforts are requested to address an unprecedented crisis, as underlined in the article, stressing also the importance of initiatives related with investments and re-qualification, within a regional and interregional dimension.