The Epidemic Response Anthropology Platform (ERAP) is a resource to support a humane and effective response to epidemics. The aim of the platform is to promote evidence on the social dimensions of epidemics in different contexts and to improve the way this evidence is used in response planning. ERAP works with, and builds, networks of anthropologists and other social scientists with regional or subject expertise and connects them to policymakers, scientists and humanitarian response workers involved in responding to outbreaks.
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ERAP is a partnership between the Institute of Development Studies and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. It is supported by the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team which is funded by the UK Government.
ERAP began life as the Ebola Response Anthropology Platform which was set up during the West African Ebola outbreak of 2013-2016. This original platform (along with other initiatives such as the AAA Emergency Ebola Network and the francophone ‘Réseau Ouest-Africain SHS-EBOLA network) became a focal point for social science evidence and advice, helping hundreds of anthropologists, social scientists, and practitioners on the ground to mobilise and provide much needed insights into the social contexts of resistance and reticence, rumours, burial practices, care for the sick, the development of vaccines and much more. Building on the success of the Ebola Response Anthropology Platform, and increasing recognition of the helpful role anthropology and social sciences can play in epidemic response, the Epidemic Response Anthropology Platform was established. ERAP works closely with international partners responsible for global health and humanitarianism, in particular through the Social Science in Humanitarian Action Platform.
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