Global Health Research disparities: Urgent call for rethinking strategies and investments

The Global Observatory on Health Research and Development (R&D) has highlighted vast discrepancies in global health research funding and capacity between high-income and low- to middle-income nations. The commentary, “Tracking global resources and capacity for health research: time to reassess strategies and investment decisions,” emphasises the urgent need to revise approaches and investments in health R&D, particularly given the disparities magnified by recent pandemics like COVID-19 and mpox. This analysis, published in Health Research Policy and Systems, highlights disparities in grant funding, human resources, education opportunities, and the failure of many countries to meet recommended health R&D expenditure targets. It stresses the importance of systematic data collection, prioritising research aligned with global health needs, enhancing data sharing, and promoting global cooperation to address these persistent challenges. The Global Observatory aims to bridge these gaps, offering crucial insights into health R&D progress and hurdles and fostering a more equitable future in global health. Access to the complete analysis is available through the Global Observatory on Health Research and Development.

Read more from WHO