As the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) convenes in Geneva, political fragmentation and uncertainty define the global health landscape. Yet amid these challenges, one truth stands clear: feminist leadership is not a luxury—it is an imperative. Women in Global Health (WGH) delegates from Zambia, Nigeria and India are at the forefront of this transformation, advocating for a future where health systems are equitable, resilient, and inclusive.
In a time of strained multilateralism, WGH is anchoring a bold new model of leadership. One that is feminist, inclusive, and deeply rooted in local realities. By centering the lived experiences of women, especially those on the frontlines of healthcare, WGH is pushing for systemic change that redefines who leads, who is heard, and whose health is prioritized.
Zambia: Empowering Frontline Health Workers
In Zambia, women form the backbone of the health workforce, yet they remain undervalued and under-resourced. WGH Zambia is advocating for policies that go beyond recognition, to real investment in training, fair pay, and leadership opportunities for women health workers. By strengthening grassroots leadership among women health workers, WGH Zambia is building a resilient system equipped to face current and future public health crises.
“When the funding shrinks, women health workers are the first to feel the impact, and the last to be consulted. That must change.” (Ms. Flata Mwale, WGH Zambia)
India: Dismantling Deep-Rooted Inequities
India’s vast health system is marked by stark inequities, especially for women and marginalized communities. WGH India is working to dismantle these structural barriers by pushing for gender-responsive budgeting, stronger community health systems, and leadership pathways for women. Their advocacy ensures that women are not just passive recipients of health services but co-creators of equitable health systems.
“True health equity in India will only be realized when women are recognized not just as beneficiaries, but as leaders and architects of the systems that serve them”- Shubha Nagesh, India
Nigeria: Driving Regional Equity and Accountability
Nigeria continues to face one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, a reality compounded by an overstretched and under-resourced health system. But amidst these challenges, WGH Nigeria is stepping up with bold, solutions-driven advocacy.
At the heart of their efforts is a push for greater accountability in health financing and a firm commitment to gender equity in primary care delivery. WGH Nigeria is advocating for increased investment in women-led, community- based health initiatives, rooted in the understanding that local, women-driven solutions are key to sustainable health outcomes. They are also ensuring that West Africa’s perspective is not left behind in the global decision- making spaces. .
As WGH put it, “We need global solidarity that funds women-led innovation, not just emergency response.”
Calling for Gender-Responsive Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
WGH is advocating for UHC models that go beyond access, and are gender-responsive and equity driven. In countries like India and Zambia, where maternal and child health burdens intersect with climate-related diseases and poverty, our delegates are pushing for policies that prioritize the needs of women and marginalized communities. They are advocating for health systems that are not only accessible and equitable but also responsive to health needs across individuals’ life courses. That is how we can ensure that no one is left behind.
Investing in Women Health Workers: A Global Imperative
Despite women comprising 70% of the global health workforce, they remain underrepresented in leadership roles and undervalued in policy discussions. WGH is calling for binding commitments to invest in women health workers, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Delegates from Zambia, Nigeria and India are highlighting the critical role of women on the frontlines and demanding that their contributions be recognized and supported.
Transparency in Pandemic Preparedness
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep inequities in global health systems. WGH is advocating for transparency and accountability in pandemic treaty negotiations, ensuring that future health emergencies are met with coordinated, equitable responses.
Elevating the Voices of the Global South
WGH is committed to elevating the lived experiences of women from the Global South. Delegates from India, Nigeria and Zambia are bringing forward the realities of frontline health workers, advocating for policies that are informed by the experiences of those who are most affected by health inequities. Their leadership ensures that global health policies are not only inclusive but also reflective of diverse perspectives.
The Road Ahead
As the world seeks to rebuild more resilient and equitable health systems, WGH delegates are not just participating in the WHA—they are shaping its direction. Their message is clear: Health for all is not possible without gender equity, and multilateralism must deliver on this promise. In a time of uncertainty, their presence is a powerful reminder that inclusive leadership and feminist global health diplomacy are not luxuries—they are necessities.
Women in Global Health is leading the charge for a future where:
Pic Courtesy- Meet & Greet, WGH Zambia, 2023