Global health researchers call for more equitable partnerships
pharmafile | September 17, 2026 | News story | | Equitable Partnerships in Global Health Research, Global Consortium for Public Health Research, University of Huddersfield, infectious disease, social inequalities
More than 70 academics, researchers, public health professionals, policymakers and research partners from around the world have called for greater collaboration in global health research at the fourth annual conference of the Global Consortium for Public Health Research (GCPHR).
Held at the University of Huddersfield, the conference brought together delegates to discuss how global health research can become more inclusive and responsive to the needs of communities worldwide.
The event focused on the theme of ‘Equitable Partnerships in Global Health Research’, with discussions covering global health security, emerging infectious diseases, health inequalities and the social factors influencing health outcomes and life expectancy.
Keynote speakers Professor Andrew Lee, Professor of Public Health at the University of Sheffield, and Professor Paul Bissell, Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation at the University of Chester, highlighted the interconnected challenges of infectious disease and persistent social inequalities.
They called for greater collaboration across disciplines and sectors to strengthen health systems, improve pandemic preparedness and reduce health inequalities.
Other speakers highlighted the importance of sustainable partnerships between institutions in high-income countries and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with an emphasis on mutual learning, shared leadership, mentorship, community engagement and knowledge translation.
Professor Parikshit Goswami, Director of Research and Innovation at the University of Huddersfield, said the conference had brought together colleagues from different disciplines, sectors and countries around a shared commitment to equitable partnerships in global health research, adding that “it was inspiring to see such energy, openness and ambition in the discussions”.
Dr Rajeeb Kumar Sah, Reader in Public Health and co-lead of GCPHR, said the conference demonstrated the importance of collective action in addressing complex public health challenges, saying: “Sustainable solutions require collaboration built on mutual respect, shared leadership and the meaningful involvement of researchers and communities across the world.”
The conference also explored approaches to strengthening research capacity and supporting the decolonisation of global health research, alongside the role of communities and researchers in translating knowledge into practice.
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