Women community health workers (CHWs) are vital in achieving health for all. Yet, they face economic and gender injustice, with over 6 million being either unpaid or significantly underpaid, working in insecure conditions with few opportunities.
Despite this, women CHWs are breaking gender stereotypes, and acting as role models for younger women and their communities.
Our report highlights women community health workers (CHWs) as leaders and agents of social change in their communities, exploring their experiences and advocating for their career advancement.
- Women CHWs know their value and want to progress in their careers but need tailored opportunities.
- Women CHWs’ perceptions of what it means to be a leader challenge the health systems’ hierarchical models that exclude them.
- Women CHWs are driving gender-transformative change but need more support.
- Women CHWs face economic and gender injustice.
- Women CHWs have the answers but are invisible to policymakers.
- Women CHWs can help resolve the global health worker shortage emergency.
For World Health Worker Week 2024, Women in Global Health called for gender and economic justice for women Community Health Workers. By professionalizing their roles, we empower women, strengthen local health systems, and ultimately improve health outcomes for all. When CHWs have the training, supervision, and resources they deserve, they can reach their full potential, delivering quality care and promoting healthier communities.