Global Report Highlights Inequality's Role in Pandemic Vulnerability

A new UNAIDS report reveals that inequality significantly undermines efforts to combat pandemics, leading to increased disruption and mortality. The findings emphasize the urgent need for global leaders to address disparities to enhance pandemic preparedness. As G20 Health Ministers prepare to meet amid rising health threats, the report advocates for actionable strategies to break the cycle of inequality and health crises. It highlights the importance of equitable access to resources and the need for a transformative approach to health security. Discover how addressing inequality can mitigate pandemic risks and foster a safer world.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 3, 2025, 16:12 IST

Inequality and Pandemic Impact

New Delhi, Nov 3: A recent report from UNAIDS reveals that inequality is significantly hindering both national and international efforts to tackle pandemics, resulting in increased disruption, mortality, and prolonged crises.

This report, produced by leading economists, public health specialists, and political figures as part of the Global Council on Inequality, AIDS, and Pandemics, emphasizes how disparities are heightening global vulnerability to health crises.

It points out that elevated levels of inequality, both within and among nations, not only exacerbate the economic impact of pandemics but also extend their duration.

Conversely, pandemics contribute to rising inequality, creating a vicious cycle evident in the cases of Covid-19, AIDS, Ebola, influenza, and mpox.

The report advocates for proactive measures to address inequality prior to the onset of pandemics, aiming to enhance global preparedness against future health emergencies.

Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS and United Nations Under-Secretary-General, stated, “This report underscores the urgent need for leaders to confront the inequalities that fuel pandemics and provides guidance on how to achieve this. By reducing disparities, we can create a more equitable and secure world for all.”

These findings emerge as G20 Health Ministers are set to convene amid reports of escalating outbreaks of avian flu and mpox, alongside the approval of new HIV prevention medications by regulatory bodies.

The report calls for a transformative approach to health security that can disrupt the cycle of inequality and pandemics through actionable strategies addressing the social and economic factors influencing health crises at both national and global scales.

It also emphasizes the need to eliminate financial obstacles within the global system, enabling all nations to effectively tackle the inequalities that exacerbate pandemics.

“Develop local and regional production capabilities alongside a new governance framework for research and development that ensures technology is treated as a public good essential for pandemic prevention,” the report advises.

Professor Sir Michael Marmot, Director at University College London’s Institute of Health Equity, remarked, “The evidence is clear. By addressing inequalities—through access to adequate housing, fair employment, quality education, and social safety nets—we can mitigate the root causes of pandemic risk. Efforts to combat inequality are not optional; they are vital for effective pandemic preparedness and response.”