Social Inequality

Climate change costs lives by breaking down social connection

New study finds Rx kids associated with significant reductions in infant maltreatment investigations

Rising stroke rates highlight widening ethnic and socioeconomic inequalities across populations, major study finds

A new study found that stroke incidence is rising again, with higher rates in Black African and Black Caribbean populations, as well as those experiencing socioeconomic deprivation. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to prevent strokes and address systemic inequalities.

Rich more likely to use AI study finds, as experts warn these burgeoning technologies are increasing social inequality

A recent study reveals that individuals with higher education or income are more aware of and use AI tools, exacerbating social inequalities. The researchers recommend increasing engagement with AI-related topics through outreach campaigns, educational programs, and community workshops to reduce this new digital divide.

Racism and socioeconomic stress may alter pregnancy biology, leaving black women nearly three times more likely to die

A study by the University of Cambridge found that racism and socioeconomic stress can alter key physiological processes in the body during pregnancy, leading to higher rates of preeclampsia and preterm birth in black women. These changes are not due to genetic differences but rather persistent socio-environmental stressors.

Quitting tobacco could give major economic uplift to 20 million + households in India

A study estimates that quitting tobacco could give a major economic uplift to over 20 million households in India, with the greatest impact felt in rural areas and among the poorest households. The analysis suggests that these households would receive a significant boost in income, potentially moving up one or two economic classes.

Counting the silence: How years of data crunching led to female artists making up majority of Brit Award nominees

A decade-long analysis reveals a significant gap in solo female Irish artists reaching number one on charts, but data-driven intervention has led to a shift in Brit Awards nominations. The study highlights the impact of commercial mechanisms like airplay on public recognition and industry trends.

AstraZeneca joins Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program as Funding Partner

The Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program has partnered with AstraZeneca to support five medical students participating in the Winn Clinical Investigator Pathway Program (Winn CIPP). The program provides immersive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience to prepare students for careers in clinical research.

Women are being shut out of workplaces because of a hidden time gap, new research shows

A new study by University of East London researchers reveals that women are being shut out of workplaces due to a hidden time gap caused by unpaid care and rigid social expectations. This 'time squeeze' leaves women with less time for networking, training, and progression, hindering their career advancement.

A study links armed conflict in Colombia with higher tuberculosis cases and mortality

A study by ISGlobal found that areas with high conflict intensity recorded a higher disease burden, including higher TB case rates and mortality. The research highlights the need for control strategies adapted to each territory, incorporating conflict-sensitive approaches into surveillance, prevention, and healthcare systems.

Parenting programs can improve wellbeing for families from diverse backgrounds

A new study published in The Lancet Public Health found that community-based parenting programmes like Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities can improve family wellbeing and reduce health inequalities. Parents who participated reported higher levels of mental wellbeing and improved relationships with their children.

Family medicine practice redesigns patient dismissal process

A family medicine practice in upstate New York revised its patient dismissal process, shifting from expedited dismissals to a structured review process that prioritizes patient engagement and collaborative planning. This redesign led to a significant decline in behavior-concern referrals and eliminated racial disproportionality.

European regions with the highest poverty levels are the most vulnerable to the health effects of air pollution

A new study reveals that socioeconomic factors and renewable energy adoption significantly influence the risk of mortality related to air pollution in Europe. Regions with lower GDP per capita and poverty rates, particularly in Southern and Eastern Europe, experienced a higher risk of mortality associated with air pollution.

New Themed Issue calls for urgent shift away from “Leaky Pipeline” metaphor as studies reveal systemic exclusion of women in Archaeology

The 'leaky pipeline' metaphor oversimplifies the systemic barriers faced by women and marginalized scholars in archaeology. New research highlights multiple forms of inequity that diminish productivity, limit collaborations, and reduce future generations of archaeologists.

Social background shapes how hard children work, according to a study by UC3M

A study by UC3M found that children from privileged families show greater cognitive effort, but incentivizing rewards can narrow the gap. Classroom incentives can help reduce socioeconomic inequalities by valuing individual progress and rewarding social recognition.

‘Just-shoring’ puts justice at the center of critical minerals policy

A new framework, 'just-shoring,' aims to shift focus from competition and security to the rights and interests of local communities whose lands are most at risk. The approach prioritizes accountability and transparency, giving communities a legal right to co-govern throughout the mineral lifecycle.

Multicultural intergroup dialogue as an approach to advancing holistic support for international students

Multicultural intergroup dialogue improves holistic support for international students at Japanese universities. The approach, based on Intergroup Dialogue, promotes equitable and inclusive university environments, where students from diverse backgrounds interact and learn with one another.

Racial/ethnic disparities among people fatally shot by U.S. police vary across state lines

A new study found racial and ethnic disparities in fatal police shootings vary widely between states, with some states having much wider disparities than others. Firearm ownership rates did not explain the disparities, suggesting other factors may be at play.

New research-based approach updates welfare states to times of austerity

A new approach for welfare states updates policies to prioritize social investments and effectiveness, combining theoretical contributions and comparative studies. The approach aims to generate long-term benefits for individuals and society, with a focus on targeted solutions and systematic monitoring.

As a whole, LGB+ workers in the NHS do not experience pay gaps compared to their heterosexual colleagues

A study published in PLOS found that LGB+ workers in the NHS do not experience pay gaps compared to their heterosexual colleagues. However, those who have disclosed their sexual identity tend to receive higher pay, while those who have not disclosed are at risk of a pay penalty.

Black Americans face increasingly higher risk of gun homicide death than White Americans

A new analysis across 45 years suggests that the disparity in firearm homicide deaths between Black and White Americans has grown, with many thousands of Black lives lost. The study found that Black males faced an eight to nine times higher likelihood of firearm homicide death than White males from 1988 to 2010.

How well are international guidelines followed for certain medications for high-risk pregnancies?

A study found that international guidelines for preterm delivery are often not followed, leading to varying levels of exposure to life-saving medications. In high-income countries, there were significant discrepancies in the use of these treatments.

Pay gap among academics does not stop at university

A new study by Radboud University and the University of Groningen found that PhD graduates, particularly women, experience a persistent pay gap outside academia. Women earn an average of 171 euros less per month immediately after obtaining their doctorate, with this disparity increasing over time.

Study finds banning energy disconnections shouldn’t destabilise markets

A new study by RMIT University found that protections in place in Europe can help phase out harmful electricity disconnections without destabilizing power markets. The research highlights the need for evidence-led action to extend disconnection prohibitions and strengthen safeguards for vulnerable consumers.

The most prominent trend in Holocaust commemoration worldwide is a growing focus on the rescuers of Jews

A growing trend in Holocaust commemoration worldwide is the establishment of museums and exhibitions honoring the Righteous Among the Nations, heroes who risked their lives to save Jews from extermination. These initiatives aim to preserve Jewish heritage, commemorate the memory of the Holocaust, and combat racism and antisemitism.

Wood burning in homes drives dangerous air pollution in winter

Residential wood burning accounts for over one-fifth of wintertime exposure to outdoor fine particulate matter, linked to increased risks of heart disease and premature death. By reducing indoor wood burning, Americans could decrease outdoor air pollution and save thousands of lives.

LGBTQ+ adults may be around twice as likely to be unemployed or to report workforce non-participation compared to heterosexual adults, per large representative Australian survey

A large Australian survey reveals that LGBTQ+ adults are twice as likely to be unemployed or report workforce non-participation. The study highlights the need for targeted support and policies to address these disparities.

British redcoat’s lost memoir reveals harsh realities of life as a disabled veteran

Shadrack Byfield's autobiography offers insight into the suffering and resilience of Britain's homecoming soldiers. The new evidence shows Byfield's tenacious pursuit of veterans' benefits, struggles with pain, poverty, and police, and his determination to design a custom prosthesis after losing his arm.

Has progress stalled on gender equality at work?

The study emphasizes the importance of reorganizing work to support prevention rather than perpetual recovery, particularly in the face of climate change and technological disruption. It also highlights the need for gender equity in technology design and governance to prevent job displacement and undervaluation of women's work.

Left in the cold: Study finds most renters shut out of energy-saving upgrades

A study by Binghamton University reveals that most renters in the US are unable to access energy efficiency improvements, leading to higher heating costs and poorer health. The 'split incentive' issue, where landlords prioritize profits over upgrades, is a major barrier to change.

After more than two years of war, Palestinian children are hungry, denied education and “like the living dead”

A University of Cambridge-led study reveals that more than two years of war in Gaza has left Palestinian children too weak to learn or play, with some living on as little as a bowl of lentils a day. The report warns of a 'lost' generation emerging in Gaza due to the war's educational, physical and psychological impacts.

How intersections of race, education, and socioeconomic status may predict unequal greenspace exposure

A new study found that considering factors jointly can capture a more accurate representation of disparities in residential greenspace exposure, driven by structural racism. Exposure to trees and grass provides numerous benefits to physical and mental health, but inequities persist due to disinvestment in marginalized communities.

Diversity language in US medical research agency grants declined 25% since 2024

A study published in The BMJ found a 25% decline in diversity language in NIH grants from January 2024 to June 2025. Researchers analyzed 17,701 grants and found that words related to diversity, equity, and politics were deleted at a 10-fold higher rate in 2025.

Global first: New Indigenous-led research initiative to revitalize legal orders

Next Steps: Rebuilding Indigenous Law is a new research initiative that empowers Indigenous communities to renew and rebuild their own legal systems. The project, supported by a $10 million investment, aims to rebuild entire Indigenous legal orders and revitalize traditional legal traditions.

Subnational income inequality revealed: Regional successes may hold key to addressing widening gap globally

A new study visualizes three decades of income inequality data, revealing worsening trends for half the world's population but also 'bright spots' where policy is closing the gap. Regional efforts in countries like India, China, and Brazil show promise in addressing disparities.

To make AI more fair, tame complexity

Researchers found that complexity can lead to bias in AI models, highlighting the need for better modeling of real-world complexities, input from diverse groups, and ground truths. By addressing these factors, developers can create more accurate and fair AI systems.

8 in 10 Irish people identifying as LGBTQI+ report having experienced at least one form of identity abuse, and more than half have experienced multiple forms of abuse within their lifetime

A study published in PLOS One reveals that 8 in 10 Irish people identifying as LGBTQI+ have experienced at least one form of identity abuse. Over half have faced multiple forms of abuse within their lifetime. The Being LGBTQI+ in Ireland study highlights the need for improved support and protection for these vulnerable communities.

Study finds Kansas City fare-free bus policy attracted new riders, increased overall use

A study by the University of Kansas found that Kansas City's zero-fare bus policy attracted 17% of respondents who started using bus service, particularly among younger people and white residents. The policy also increased overall bus use, with new users without vehicle access making more trips per week than those with access.

Double disadvantage hurts more than twice as much

A new study from the Complexity Science Hub finds that belonging to more than one marginalized group can significantly harder forming social connections. The researchers developed a mathematical model and tested it using friendship data from around 40,000 U.S. high school students, revealing how overlapping disadvantages can interact.

1 in 3 university students surveyed from a Parisian suburb report being unable to access desired food, with this food insecurity associated with academic dropout

A cross-sectional study in a socioeconomically disadvantaged Parisian suburb area found that 1 in 3 university students reported being unable to access desired food. This food insecurity was significantly associated with academic dropout, highlighting the need for targeted support.

Emergency department pilot program serves rural families

A pilot program at University of Missouri-Columbia's emergency department connects rural families with community resources, improving their health and stability. Nearly half of participating families reported unmet essential needs, with food insecurity being the most common.

Data Protection is transforming humanitarian action in the digital age, new book shows

The book highlights the risk of 'scope creep' and emphasizes the need for strong data protection frameworks to preserve trust. It argues that collaboration between humanitarian actors, academics, regulators, and affected populations is crucial to ensure technology serves humanity.

‘Slums’ of Victorian Manchester housed wealthy doctors and engineers, new study reveals

A new study reveals that middle-class Mancunians, including doctors and engineers, lived alongside working-class residents in the same buildings and streets. The research found that over 60% of buildings housing wealthy occupational classes also housed unskilled laborers.

U.K. food insecurity is associated with mental health conditions

A recent study published in PLOS One found that 7.8% of U.K. households experience food insecurity, with Black/African/Caribbean/Black British households facing higher rates. Food insecurity is also associated with longstanding mental health conditions, particularly among Asian/Asian British respondents.

Dental shame stops people seeking help for oral health issues, study warns

A new study warns that dental shame can lead to lower self-worth and unfavourable oral health care behaviours, exacerbating existing oral health inequalities. Researchers emphasize the need for non-judgmental environments where patients feel empowered to prioritize their oral health.

Housing associations more effective than government in supporting unemployed in deprived areas

A new study by University of East Anglia finds that housing associations are more effective than government work programmes at helping the long-term unemployed in deprived areas. The research suggests a person-centred approach with strength-based and long-term support is key to success.

Open communication only way of reaching polarized audiences, study finds

A new study published in the British Journal of Political Science found that open communication is more effective than debate-style approaches in reaching polarized audiences. The study showed that exposure to information and minimal intervention can lead to depolarizing people with extreme conspiratorial views.

Trump is the primary source of US disinformation in POC media, finds ICFJ study

A new study by the International Center for Journalists and US universities found that Trump was the main source and distributor of disinformation in ethnic and Indigenous press in the US. The research also linked the prevalence of political disinformation to a decline in trust in the news and an increase in violence against journalists.

How climate policy can be made socially just and enforceable worldwide

A model study explores how carbon pricing paired with redistribution can help the energy transition and climate globally, increasing welfare and reducing economic inequality. The research team developed an integrated assessment model to map relationships between economy, income distribution, and climate policy in 179 countries.

Poverty and social disadvantage in women and men and fertility outcomes

A cohort study found that poverty and social disadvantage are associated with lower fecundability and increased risks of subfertility in both women and men. The study suggests that further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms behind these findings.

Gender, language and income biases limit contributions to scientific, English-language journals

A study published in PLOS Biology found that women from lower-income countries with non-English first languages publish 70% fewer papers than men, while non-native English speakers at early career stages outperform native English speakers. The authors call for an effort to consider these factors when assessing scientists' performance.

Large social and economic inequalities persist among UK doctors

A study of 10 years of UK Labour Force Survey data shows that those from professional backgrounds are 6 times more likely to become doctors than those from working class backgrounds. The researchers call for greater efforts to boost social mobility and understand the impact on patient care.

Pathways to decarbonization

A comprehensive study assesses decarbonization's ramifications on global poverty and inequality, revealing the potential for redistributing domestic carbon revenues to alleviate poverty. However, careful policy design and international cooperation are crucial to address social development issues in developing countries.

Black youth, especially Black girls, use mental health services less than their White peers

New research published in CMAJ found that Black adolescents with mental distress are less likely to access mental health care, with Black girls being the least likely. The study highlights the need for culturally responsive and sex-specific adaptations to care, as well as policy changes to equalize mental health service use.

Women earn 25% less than men in wealthy households, finds study

A new analysis of the gender pay gap in the UK reveals that women in wealthier households earn 25% less than men, while those in poorer households experience a smaller 4% gap. The study highlights the importance of addressing societal penalties for being female and improving job quality to reduce the pay gap.

Sports clubs participation rises among Finnish youth

Participation in Finnish youth sports clubs has significantly increased since the 1980s, particularly among girls. However, rural areas and low-income families continue to face significant barriers to accessing sports opportunities due to rising costs and limited accessibility.

National study finds energy bills hit minority households the hardest

A new national study finds that African American and Latin American households pay significantly higher percentages of their income on energy, even when accounting for income. The study attributes this to factors such as older homes and higher rental rates, which exacerbate energy burdens and make it harder to access affordable upgrades.

Gender disparities in Italian medical academia have persisted or worsened since 2014, with a continued "leaky pipeline" of women not progressing to senior roles

A study examining Italian medical academia over the last decade reveals a persistent 'leaky pipeline' of women not advancing to senior roles. The research highlights significant gender disparities in academia, affecting women's career prospects and opportunities.

New study links power outages, social vulnerability in Gulf Coast

Researchers identified counties with vulnerable populations susceptible to longer-term power outages in the five-state region. Findings showed that hurricanes/tropical storms and heat waves were associated with the longest power outages, clustering in coastal and riverside counties.

Immigrants in U.S. earn 10.6% less than native-born workers, but biggest driver is job access, not wage discrimination

A recent study found that immigrants in the US face a 10.6% pay gap compared to native-born workers, primarily due to restricted access to high-paying jobs. The research highlights the need to address structural barriers limiting immigrant employment opportunities.