South Asia presents a striking paradox in global climate-health research. Despite maintaining among the world’s lowest per capita carbon emissions, the region faces severe and escalating climate-related health threats—from heat-induced illness to vector-borne diseases and malnutrition. Yet this reality is not reflected in research leadership structures.
The data is sobering: only 22% of climate-health research in South Asia is led by regional institutions, while Global North organizations control 78% of funding and 71% of research leadership. This imbalance means that health priorities, research questions, and policy recommendations often reflect external agendas rather than community needs. When those bearing the greatest health burden lack decision-making power, research outcomes risk missing critical local insights and sustainable solutions.
Read the full article on GMJ Newsroom.
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