An International Conversation: The Value of Gender Equity

The value of women and empowering them to succeed in medicine has been at the top of the national agenda for decades. Contemporary social movements have helped to shape the global gender landscape leading to transformation in the health sciences and forcing the medical profession to grapple with questions surrounding gender equity. It is well recognized that gender equity is one of the most important determinants of health and economic recognition. Despite this recognition it remains a complex issue. The WHO Global Health Workforce Network Gender Equity Hub recognizes that, across the health and social care workforce, women are underrepresented in management, leadership and governance. Gender discrimination is linked to low morale, low self-esteem, and lower productivity across the globe. On the contrary, when women are leaders in their private practice and academic groups, and when succession planning and leadership development is part of the culture of an organization, gender...