The International Centre for Future Health Systems recently partnered with the School of Law, Society and Criminology to host Professor John Harrington from Cardiff University (Wales) for a presentation on Sovereignty and Global Health. This engaging dialogue explored shifting axes of global power, evolving understandings of sovereignty, and significant global health challenges. The discussion highlighted how these forces shape individuals’ right to health and their access to treatment, services, and essential resources. As we shape future health systems, we must consider how global politics and legal frameworks influence national politics, policy priorities and resource allocation – and how these, in turn, affect individual health, equity, and access to care.