Inequality is making the world more vulnerable to pandemics. Pandemics, in turn, exacerbate inequalities. This pandemics-inequality cycle is the main finding, based on two years of research and convenings around the world, of a new report published by UNAIDS, the Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemics.

Read the UNAIDS Global Council's report - 'Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle: building true health security in a global age' here:  https://www.unaids.org/sites/default/files/2025-11/2025_global-council-inequality-report_en.pdf

As part of this work, the Global Council commissioned the UCL Institute of Health Equity (IHE) to conduct an evidence review on the links between social determinants of health and health inequities and pandemics and the role of social protection in mitigating inequities.

This evidence review is the result of reviewing over 1,500 sources of scientific and grey literature on the links between inequalities and COVID-19, HIV/AIDS, SARS, Influenza, Ebola and TB. 

The evidence shows that being ready for a pandemic goes well beyond having the necessary surveillance mechanisms in place. As important as it is, a strong health system is also not enough. Improving conditions in the social determinants of health and reducing inequalities would significantly improve outcomes during pandemics.

The review aims to be a key resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about the pandemics-inequalities cycle and on why acting on the social determinants of pandemics is crucial to prepare us for the next pandemic