Dear Reader,
We, the Editorial Team, are pleased to present Volume XIV of the McGill Journal of Global Health (MJGH), a publication rich in knowledge, evidence, and insight for global health practitioners and researchers. Formerly known as The Prognosis, MJGH is a peer-reviewed, student-run academic journal established in 2011 with the support of McGill Global Health Programs. It provides a vital platform for students to publish
original research and reviews, share critical perspectives, and engage with the global health community. Since its inception, MJGH has published 14 issues featuring 87 articles on pressing global health topics, reaching readers in 172 countries and regions. More than 60 students have contributed to the journal through roles on the editorial board, gaining valuable experience in academic publishing and journal management. MJGH continues to amplify the voices of emerging global health scholars and empowers the next generation of global health leaders.
Amid the growing turbulence in global politics, marked by cuts to global health aid, attacks on scientists and trusted public health institutions, and rising anti-vaccination campaigns, public health systems face unprecedented challenges. In this context, Volume XIV of MJGH offers a much-needed beacon of hope. It encourages us to envision a shared future grounded in solidarity, equity, and resilience. This volume provides critical perspectives on the fractures in global health caused by geopolitical uncertainty and their adverse effects on healthcare access, population health, and scientific progress. It also charts paths for resistance against marginalization and calls for collective action. Among its highlights, Volume XIV underscores the urgent need to integrate recent public health graduates into the workforce, recognizing the vast potential they demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. It explores barriers and potential solutions for achieving equitable access to universal healthcare for Indigenous communities, particularly in Nunavut. Volume XIV also addresses structural stressors, such as socioeconomic disparities, that increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases in Canada’s aging population.
From Nigeria, the volume reaffirms the importance of vaccination coverage by spotlighting the burden of measles and emphasizing the critical role of primary healthcare centers in improving health outcomes. A case study from Pakistan showcases how an enhanced health information system can transform healthcare delivery and public health infrastructure in low- and middle-income countries. Additionally, the volume advocates for intersectional approaches to sexual health education, including awareness of sexually transmitted infections, to improve health outcomes and promote equity. In essence, Volume XIV presents a powerful collection of articles that diagnose pressing challenges in global health while offering actionable strategies for building more equitable, informed, and resilient health systems worldwide.
We are deeply grateful to McGill Global Health Programs for their continued support in sustaining MJGH. We also extend our sincere thanks to Prof. Madhukar Pai, Stéphanie Laroche-Pierre, Jesse Radz, Kevin O’Neill, and Johnathan Lin, whose guidance, dedication and contributions have been instrumental to this year’s success. Our appreciation also goes to the peer reviewers who generously volunteered their time and expertise to strengthen the quality of submissions, and to our authors for their outstanding research, perseverance, and commitment.
Thank you for taking the time to read and support this publication. We hope you find it both meaningful and thought-provoking.
Sincerely,
Juwel Rana, Editor-in-Chief
On behalf of the MJGH Editorial Team 2024–2025