Inequalities in COVID-19 inequalities research: who had the capacity to respond?

The COVID-19 pandemic has been testing countries’ capacities and scientific preparedness to actively respond, and collaborate on a common cause. It has also heightened awareness of the urgent need to empirically describe and analyse health inequalities, to be able to act effectively. What is known about the rapidly emerging COVID-19 inequalities research field? We analysed the volume of COVID-19 inequalities scientific production (2020-2021), its distribution by country income groups and world regions, and inter-country collaborations, to provide a first snapshot. COVID-19 inequalities research has been highly collaborative, however inequalities exist within this field, and new dynamics have emerged in comparison to the global health inequalities research field. To ensure preparedness for future crises, investment in health inequalities research capacities must be a priority for all.