Responding to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa: What role does religion play?

This case study, produced by the Berkley Center and the World Faiths Development Dialogue, explores the significant contributions and complex roles of faith-inspired organizations (FIOs) during the 2014 Ebola epidemic in West Africa. While the epidemic claimed over 11,000 lives and exposed critical weaknesses in global health preparedness, it also highlighted how organizations like World Vision leveraged deep local networks to deliver rapid, culturally sensitive support. The study examines both the strengths and challenges of engaging religious actors in crisis response, offering valuable insights for future global health emergencies.