UK Embassy: Afghanistan faces alarming maternal mortality rates
The UK Embassy highlights Afghanistan’s alarming maternal death rate, urging urgent action to improve healthcare and support midwifery education.
On the occasion of International Day of the Midwife, the British Embassy in Afghanistan raised alarm over the country’s dire maternal health crisis, stating that Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world.
In a statement released on May 5, the embassy emphasized that lifting the ban on medical education for women—especially in midwifery—is an urgent and lifesaving measure necessary to protect Afghan mothers.
The embassy highlighted that educating women in healthcare is critical to reducing maternal deaths and ensuring the wellbeing of families across Afghanistan.
“This International Day of the Midwife serves as a powerful reminder that women’s medical education, particularly in vital areas like midwifery, is essential for safeguarding the lives of mothers and newborns,” the statement read.
This year’s International Day of the Midwife is themed “Midwives: A Vital Force in Every Crisis”, highlighting their crucial role during humanitarian emergencies and in fragile health systems.
The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) warned of the severe maternal health situation in Afghanistan and called for urgent, sustained investment in midwifery education and services. Its director praised midwives’ life-saving work in conflict zones and refugee camps.
Amid these warnings, concerns are growing over ongoing restrictions on women’s education in Afghanistan, especially in medical fields. Global organizations stress that this threatens both maternal health and the basic healthcare system in poor regions.
The European Union Delegation to Afghanistan also joined in marking the occasion, expressing appreciation for the dedication of Afghan midwives and underscoring that empowering them directly contributes to saving lives.
According to the UNFPA, skilled midwifery care can prevent up to 83% of all maternal deaths, stillbirths, and newborn deaths. Denying women access to medical training not only risks reversing hard-won health gains but endangers thousands of lives each year.
International observers continue to stress that supporting Afghan women’s access to medical education—particularly in midwifery—is not just a health imperative, but a moral and humanitarian one. Empowering midwives is essential for building a resilient and inclusive healthcare system in Afghanistan.
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