Universal Health Coverage as a Foundation for Peaceful Societies: Insights from Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS)

Abstract

Abstract— Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is a critical driver of social cohesion and national stability. In a global context where catastrophic health expenditures fuel social unrest and marginalization, Brazil’s Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde – SUS) stands as a landmark example of health as a fundamental human right. This narrative review examines SUS through a social justice lens, analyzing how its constitutional principles function as a safety net that fosters a resilient society. The methodology consists of a synthesis of scientific literature and official reports addressing the intersection between health policy, social inclusion, and democratic stability. The discussion highlights how universality promotes a shared sense of citizenship, while equity-oriented policies mitigate territorial and social inequalities through targeted allocation of resources. Furthermore, the Family Health Strategy demonstrates how primary healthcare can strengthen institutional trust by materializing the presence of the State within vulnerable communities. Despite chronic underfunding and recent fiscal constraints, SUS has maintained a remarkable capacity for resilience, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Brazilian experience suggests that universal health systems may contribute not only to improved health outcomes but also to the broader conditions associated with Positive Peace. In this sense, SUS offers valuable lessons for how Universal Health Coverage can support democratic stability, social cohesion, and the reduction of inequalities in contemporary societies.