The Glass Ceiling in Global Health: Perspectives of Female and Male Anesthesiologists

Abstract

Despite making up 75% of the global health workforce, women are underrepresented in leadership roles. A survey found that 58.2% of participants recognised unique barriers for women, with 70.0% of women versus 48.6% of men acknowledging these challenges. The main barriers identified were work-life balance, lack of mentors, discrimination and limited career advancement. Men were less likely to experience these problems. Policies to promote work-life balance, mentoring, equal opportunities and anti-discrimination are essential to improve the representation of women in senior management.