In this introduction to the special issue, Borda and colleagues present an overview of the current global epidemiology of cervical cancer incidence and mortality, with the highest burden concentrated in Africa and Asia. The article highlights decreased HPV vaccination coverage in recent years and underlines the need for new vaccine introductions and programme strengthening to achieve elimination goals. The supplement captures lessons from CHIC symposia in Africa and South Asia, including evidence for a one-dose strategy, pandemic-related challenges, and progress in cervical cancer screening. Recent increases in vaccine supply and single-dose efficacy evidence are framed as enabling conditions for accelerating cervical cancer elimination through vaccination coupled with screening and treatment.