Imag(in)ing the health-security nexus: The connection of images, health, and security in the Ebola epidemic 2013-2016

Abstract

This thesis explores the interplay between images, health, and security in relation to the Ebola epidemic that took place in West Africa between 2013 and 2016 by posing the question: How do images shape our understandings of the link of health and security? The central argument of the thesis is that images enable us to see different layers of health security, ranging from the threat of infection to the individual body to the threat of a global spread of the virus. These layers unfold within the image, between in front and behind the camera, between depicted and viewing person, and, ultimately between Global North and Global South. Together, they define Ebola as a threat to the body, through the body, and within the body. As images are connecting and separating bodies, they are not only representing the health-security nexus but are partaking in its making; they make (in)visible and make problems, such as biases and injustices.

Dissertation ist gesperrt bis 16. Oktober 2026 !