Researchers reviewed 24 journals and more than 2,000 editorial board members using public information from October 2024 to December 2024. Two thirds of board members were identified as men. More than half came from high‑income countries and fewer than 3 per cent came from low‑income countries.
The analysis found regions most affected by tropical diseases—Latin America, Sub‑Saharan Africa, South Asia and the Middle East and North Africa—were underrepresented on boards. The authors say this can shape which topics get attention. They recommend diversity policies, mentorship for researchers from low‑ and middle‑income countries, inclusive board recruitment and local partnerships.
Difficult words
- identify — find or name someone or somethingidentified
- editorial — relating to editors or opinion articles
- board — group of people who make decisions
- underrepresent — appear less often or be less includedunderrepresented
- diversity — different types of people or ideas together
- mentorship — guidance and help from an experienced person
- partnership — working together of two or more groupspartnerships
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Discussion questions
- Why might it be a problem if regions affected by tropical diseases are underrepresented on boards?
- How could mentorship help researchers from low- and middle-income countries?
- What actions could a journal take to make its board more diverse?
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