UN agencies have warned that cuts in aid from wealthy countries could significantly increase maternal deaths, with pregnant women in conflict zones facing the highest risks. The alarming trend, highlighted in a report released on April 7, 2025, indicates that maternal mortality rates could mirror the devastating effects seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Aid cuts increase maternal mortality risks.
- Conflict zones have highest maternal death rates.
- Global maternal deaths rose by 40,000 in 2021.
- Significant inequalities in maternal healthcare access.
- Urgent investment needed in healthcare workers.
- Stagnation in maternal mortality rates since 2015.
The report reveals that while global maternal deaths declined by 40% from 2000 to 2023, the progress has stagnated since 2016. In 2023, approximately 260,000 women died due to complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. The report emphasizes that maternal mortality rates are alarmingly higher in conflict-affected areas, where women face a risk five times greater than in more stable regions. Key statistics include:
- 346 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in poor countries.
- 10 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in rich countries.
- 99% of births attended by health professionals in high-income countries compared to 73% in poor countries.
Dr. Bruce Aylward from the World Health Organization noted that funding cuts have resulted in clinic closures and job losses for health workers, disrupting the supply of essential medicines. He warned that the current situation could lead to “pandemic-like effects” on maternal health. The report also highlighted that countries experiencing conflict account for 61% of global maternal deaths while representing only 25% of live births. Without a significant increase in funding and resources, achieving the sustainable development goal of reducing maternal deaths to below 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030 will be increasingly challenging.
The findings underscore the urgent need for increased investment in maternal health services, particularly in fragile settings. UNICEF’s Catherine Russell emphasized the importance of supporting midwives and community health workers to ensure safe pregnancies and deliveries. The report calls for renewed efforts to maintain critical healthcare services and improve access to family planning and education to prevent further setbacks in maternal health.
