| Issue/Objective |
Despite comprising over 70% of the global health workforce, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles-holding only 25% of senior positions. This leadership gap contributes to persistent gender inequities in health outcomes. The objective of this presentation is to highlight how inclusive, gender-balanced leadership can help close the women's health gap and strengthen health systems, using insights from gender integration efforts in nutrition governance.
The session will also address how these leadership gaps impact a range of health issues that disproportionately affect women and girls, including sexual and reproductive health, noncommunicable diseases, and nutrition outcomes. |
| Methodology/Approach |
Drawing on global research and field-based insights, this session examines how inclusive leadership practices-such as promoting women's decision-making, engaging male allies, and institutionalizing gender equity-can drive more responsive and equitable health systems and improve health outcomes for women and girls. A case study on integrating gender into nutrition governance will highlight practical tools and leadership strategies for embedding equity into health policy and planning. |
| Results |
Gender-integrated leadership approaches lead to more inclusive policy development, improved responsiveness to community needs, and stronger accountability. Meaningful involvement of women in leadership supports development of more equitable interventions, which in turn impact health and nutrition outcomes. |
| Discussion/Conclusion |
Inclusive leadership is not just about representation-it's a strategic lever for better health outcomes. To close the women's health gap, global health systems must prioritize leadership pathways for women, invest in mentorship and sponsorship, and cultivate supportive networks. Building gender-balanced leadership teams is essential to creating resilient, equitable health systems. |
| Presenters and affiliations |
Temitope Akintunde Nutrition International |
