Gender Justice and Global Health Equity: A Lancet Commission Update

Achieving global health equity requires a fundamental shift towards gender justice, recognizing that health outcomes are deeply intertwined with social and systemic inequalities. Recent work from The Lancet Commission on gender and global health, along with ongoing research, highlights the critical need to address the vulnerabilities and marginalization experienced by all genders, including boys and men.

The Lancet Commission on Gender and Global Health

In April 2025, The Lancet Commission published its findings on gender and global health, led by Sarah Hawkes and Elhadj As Sy [1]. This commission underscored the importance of achieving gender justice as a cornerstone of global health equity. The commission’s work provides a foundation for further exploration of intersectional factors impacting health.

Intersectional Approaches to Gender and Health

Building upon the work of Hawkes and colleagues, a nuanced approach is needed that considers the intersection of gender with other social factors. This includes recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals based on indigeneity, geographical remoteness, health status, and societal constructions of masculinity and gender [3]. Addressing these intersecting factors is essential for achieving true gender justice and improving health outcomes for all.

Key Leaders in the Field

Several individuals are leading the charge in advancing gender justice and global health equity:

• Sarah Hawkes: Head of Global Population Health at Monash University Malaysia and Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Global Health 50/50. Her work focuses on the intersection of research and advocacy for social and health policy [4].
• Elhadj As Sy: Chair of the Kofi Annan Foundation, the Dakar Institut Pasteur, and the African Child Policy Forum, among other roles. He has extensive experience in international development and humanitarian work [4].
• Gary Barker: A collaborator on the Lancet Commission, contributing expertise in gender equality and health.

Conflict of Interest Disclosures

Several individuals involved in the Lancet Commission have disclosed potential conflicts of interest. These include royalty payments from Oxford University Press, unpaid memberships in organizations like the Cancer Council South Australia, and consulting fees from various institutions [2]. These disclosures are important for maintaining transparency and accountability in research.

Looking Ahead

The pursuit of gender justice and global health equity is an ongoing process. By adopting intersectional approaches, acknowledging the leadership of key figures in the field, and maintaining transparency through conflict of interest disclosures, we can continue to make progress towards a healthier and more equitable world. Further research and advocacy are crucial to address the complex challenges that remain.