Gender equality is recognised as a crucial component for the success of health systems and societies, and is a key focus area for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Although in many countries women constitute over 75% of the health workforce, female representation at the top levels in global health is lagging, in particular when looking at political representation, academia and the private sector.
International Geneva’s pivotal role in global health has long been recognised. With the launch of the Geneva Gender Champions in July 2015, the multilateral city of diplomacy is also positioning itself as a hub for gender equality. More than 100 leaders from international and nongovernmental organisations as well as permanent missions have committed to end all-male panels and to support concrete, measurable actions to advance gender parity. How are they meeting these pledges? How can the Geneva Gender Champions mobilise gender-focused commitments in global health? Is their engagement in line with the realities of gender disparity in global health leadership?
The Global Health Centre at the Graduate Institute and Women in Global Health are organising this policy dialogue to address these and other questions. A distinguished panel will explore the challenges and opportunities of women’s leadership in global health and discuss new solutions and strategies to outline a way forward.
By fostering collective action in Geneva, this event will provide a platform to strengthen the network of organisations engaged in increasing gender equality in global health, and put commitments into practice to effect change.
The event is supported by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.