As we commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 under the theme “Accelerate Action”, it is a moment to reflect on the transformative role of women in global health and development, particularly in underrepresented regions. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a historic blueprint for advancing women’s rights globally.

The Role of Women in Global Health

Women form the backbone of healthcare systems worldwide, making up a significant proportion of the global health workforce. Yet, they are often underrepresented in leadership positions and decision-making processes. In regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where healthcare challenges are most acute as seen with alarmingly high maternal and newborn mortality rates, women are not only caregivers but also innovators driving community-based solutions. Stories like those of Terna and Aisha in Nigeria, who are pioneering renewable energy solutions to improve healthcare delivery, highlight how empowering women can bridge gender gaps while addressing systemic health inequities. However, they face significant challenges, including limited access to leadership positions and systemic barriers to healthcare services.

Challenges in Underrepresented Regions

Despite their contributions, women in developing regions face significant barriers:

1. Limited Access to Education and Resources: Many girls are denied education due to poverty, cultural norms, or conflict, limiting their ability to contribute fully to the health and development sectors.

2. Healthcare Inequities: Women often lack access to essential healthcare services, including maternal care, leading to high mortality rates in low-income countries.

3. Systemic Gender Bias: Structural inequalities prevent women from ascending to leadership roles where they can influence policy and resource allocation.

Accelerating Action for Equality

This year’s theme emphasizes urgent steps to dismantle these barriers. Here’s how we can accelerate progress:

1. Investing in Women’s Education and Leadership: Programs that provide scholarships and mentorship opportunities for young women in STEM fields can create a pipeline of future leaders in health and development.

2. Community-Based Solutions: Supporting grassroots initiatives that empower women—such as midwifery training programs or female-led healthcare cooperatives—ensures solutions are tailored to local needs.

3. Policy Advocacy: Governments must prioritise gender-sensitive policies that address healthcare inequities, such as universal maternal care and gender-responsive budgeting15.

4. Leveraging Technology: Digital tools can amplify women’s voices and provide platforms for education, telemedicine, and advocacy in remote areas.

A Call to Action

International Women’s Day 2025 is not just a celebration—it’s a rallying cry. As we approach critical milestones like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) deadline in 2030, collective action is essential. Governments, civil society organizations, and individuals must work together to ensure that no woman or girl is left behind.

Let us honor the resilience of women who are transforming global health systems under challenging circumstances. By accelerating action today, we pave the way for a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive—because when women rise, communities prosper.