Introduction: Gender and health - a future research agenda

Gender has been characterised as ‘everywhere but nowhere’ in global health. It lies at the heart of how societies, communities, families and relationships are organised, and is deeply embedded in the systems and institutions governing society - including the health system. Grouping chapters into four themes - decolonisation, the multiple roles of the private sector, the anti-gender backlash, and governance and accountability - this introductory chapter introduces the wide range of topics and actors critically explored in this new book. Drawing on the forward-looking research agendas outlined in each chapter, this introduction reflects on how the field of enquiry into the gender/health nexus may change in the future - including promoting a more inclusive view of gender as it impacts on the health of all people and increasingly participatory and equitable research processes that draw on both experiential knowledge and academic enquiry.