Paul Zubeil

Paul Zubeil (born 27 November 1975 in Basel) currently serves as the Deputy Director‑General for European and International Health Politics at the German Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) and is a German global health expert. Zubeil is known for his work in multilateral governance, health diplomacy, pandemic preparedness, and global health financing.

Early life and Education Zubeil studied Business Administration at the University of Mannheim (MSc) and Public Health at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. He holds a diploma in Strategic Public Procurement from the UK’s Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply. His responsibilities include leading health policy engagements with the European Union and the G7 and G20 health processes.

Global Health Leadership and Engagement

Global Health Diplomacy and Governance Zubeil is an advocate for reforming global health organizations and architecture to optimize systems and drive improved health outcomes for all populations. His work is grounded in the conviction that inclusive leadership and UN reform, at both global and regional levels, are the cornerstones of an international health system that is resilient, equitable, and effective.

Zubeil regularly serves as co-chair and panelist at major international conferences on global public health. He has contributed to discussions at events such as the World Health Summit, the Global Health Talk, the European Health Forum Gastein, and the Catalyst Dialogue on Global Health Architecture. At the 2022 Catalyst Dialogue, he addressed fragmentation in global health institutions and the need for greater coherence and coordination. In 2025, at the Global Health Talk, he highlighted challenges in global health financing, advocating for coordinated solutions and efforts to rebuild donor confidence to sustain health initiatives.

UNAIDS and HIV/AIDS policy Zubeil has been a key leader in the global HIV/AIDS response through his engagement with UNAIDS. As Chair of the 53rd UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board representing Germany, he facilitated institutional dialogue and strategic decision-making during a critical period of transformation for the Joint Programme. In the context of the UN80 reform plan and the proposal to sunset UNAIDS by 2026, Zubeil emerged as an influential voice of reason, expressing concern that abrupt structural changes could prioritize the appearance of integration over real effectiveness. While supporting the need for reform, he advocated for a measured approach that avoids panic and safeguards the unique, life-saving functions of the Joint Programme. Health Policy Watch featured Zubeil among eleven other prospective candidates, citing his reputation for fiscal discipline, institutional turnaround, and his potential to bring the United States back on board. Professor of Virology, Member of the German Bundestag, and Federal Government Commissioner for Addiction and Drug Issues.