The Inequality-Pandemic Cycle: How Global Disparities Create Vulnerable Health Systems According to UN Research

Nov 03, 2025 10:42 am CST

A comprehensive UN report reveals how inequality creates a dangerous cycle that increases vulnerability to pandemics while pandemics further widen economic gaps. Research shows COVID-19 pushed 165 million into poverty while the wealthy increased their assets, demonstrating how health crises and inequality reinforce each other. Experts urge investment in social protection and debt restructuring to break this cycle before the next pandemic strikes.