From effective partnerships to sulking in the corner: the public health response to multinationals

Multinationals and the for-profit sector evoke a range of responses from public health professionals - from enthusiasm through to distain and anger. Several sessions at the conferences of the International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE) and of the American Public Health Association (APHA) in 2010 addressed issues related to multinationals, trade and public-private partnerships. However, there was no representation from the for-profit sector at any of these events. This commentary argues that, regardless of whether public health professionals agree or disagree with the actions of multinationals, maintaining a dialogue with them is essential. Recommendations are given for engaging effectively with the for-profit sector.