Tackling structural racism in health for London

A new report on structural racism and health inequalities in London by Michael Marmot and colleagues at the UCL Institute of Health Equity puts racism front and centre of public discourse after race related political upheaval in the UK and elsewhere.1 The report documents widespread and pervasive racial inequalities in health, social determinants of health, and experiences of healthcare and other public services in a city where one in three residents were born abroad, more than 300 languages are spoken, and attitudes to migration are predominantly positive. Using case studies, the report highlights the work of grassroots and other organisations that recognised the effect of racism long before it was widely accepted and have supported community action despite inadequate funding and support.2

The recommendations are high level and based on principles of proportionate universalism, considering the varying needs of different groups and aiming for equity rather than just equality. The report is strengthened by a multidisciplinary expert advisory board and takes a life course approach. It rightly roots the causes of ethnic health inequalities in racism and other intersecting forms of …