Despite clear evidence that investing in women’s health benefits society and the economy, this sector remains under-researched, under-funded, and undervalued. Recognising the critical need to change this, the World Economic Forum’s Global Alliance for Women’s Health—supported by the Gates Foundation—brings together leaders from various sectors worldwide to shift the global narrative around women’s health.
A Collaborative Movement
In partnership with the Gates Foundation, the Global Alliance for Women’s Health launched the Community of Champions at the 79th UN General Assembly. This community unites leaders from governments, academia, and the private sector who aim to elevate women’s health on the global agenda, mobilising resources and commitments to bridge health gaps. Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark, a vocal advocate within the alliance, underscores the importance of this effort:
“Investing in women’s health is a strategic move toward a more inclusive, prosperous, and resilient world."
Key Priorities for Women’s Health
The alliance’s champions gathered at the Sustainable Development Impact Meetings during UNGA 79, identifying several core priorities for advancing women’s health globally:
1. Centring Women’s Voices
Too often, women’s health needs are overlooked in decision-making. The alliance emphasises the importance of ensuring women’s experiences and perspectives are central to healthcare conversations. Putting women at the forefront will ensure that health solutions are inclusive and reflective of real needs.
2. Supporting Women’s Bodily Autonomy
With 164 million people facing unmet contraceptive needs and nearly half of all pregnancies unintended, supporting women’s autonomy in reproductive and sexual health is critical. Giving women access to healthcare and information without discrimination enhances family and societal well-being.
3. Empowering Adolescent Girls
Breaking cycles of poverty and poor health begins with empowering adolescent girls. Former First Lady of Namibia, H.E. Monica Geingos, emphasizes the importance of supporting girls through education and healthcare, helping them build a healthy, promising future.
4. Mainstreaming Women’s Health in All Healthcare
Women experience many health conditions, such as heart disease and depression, differently than men, yet these differences are often overlooked in research and treatment. A comprehensive, gender-sensitive approach to healthcare can help address these disparities and improve health outcomes for all.
5. Increasing Social and Political Capital for Women
Ensuring women’s representation in leadership roles, public life, and economic participation builds the social capital needed to address health disparities and drive impactful change. H.E. Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, advocates for increased women’s representation in decision-making to address the root causes of health inequities.
A Global Platform for Lasting Change
The Global Alliance for Women’s Health will continue to collaborate with its champions, aiming to push women’s health to the forefront of global initiatives. This alliance is uniquely positioned to unite stakeholders and resources for transformative change. All passionate leaders are encouraged to join this movement to create a healthier, more equitable world for women and girls worldwide.
With sustained investment, dedicated research, and a commitment to gender equity, the Global Alliance for Women’s Health believes a prosperous and resilient future is within reach—one where women’s health is no longer sidelined but celebrated as central to global progress.
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