Midwives: Essential Pillars of Global Health Care, Says WHO Representative

Midwives: Essential Pillars of Global Health Care, Says WHO Representative

The significance of midwives in the healthcare system cannot be overstated, as emphasized by Syed Jaffar Hussain, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative. On International Midwifery Day, celebrated on May 6, he highlighted their commitment to providing compassionate and skillful care, which is essential for ensuring safe deliveries and enhancing the health of mothers and newborns throughout the country.

This year’s theme, “Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis,” reflects the vital role midwives play, especially in challenging circumstances. The event built on the momentum from World Health Day 2025, which focused on “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” advocating for increased recognition and investment in midwives, who are indispensable in facilitating healthy beginnings for families.

The celebration witnessed the participation of Iranian midwives from various sectors, including healthcare delivery, management, and academia. It commenced with a series of speeches from notable figures such as:

  • Alireza Raeisi, Deputy Minister for Public Health
  • Sajad Razavi, Deputy Minister for Curative Affairs
  • Alireza Askari, Director General for Hospital Management and Clinical Excellence

During his address, Hussain spoke about the multifaceted roles of midwives, recognizing them as gatekeepers at primary healthcare facilities, known as moraghebe-salamat. He emphasized the importance of their presence in family practice teams, noting that midwifery is a vocation that demands significant courage, empathy, and expertise.

Hussain also acknowledged the relentless efforts of midwives, praising their ability to provide comfort and support in challenging times and their essential role in empowering women. He urged policymakers to harness the potential of midwives in safeguarding the health of communities.

As part of the event, midwives recognized for their outstanding contributions across various provinces and medical universities received appreciation notes. This recognition underscored the crucial role midwives play in the healthcare system and emphasized the ongoing need for support and investment in their profession.

UNFPA Commends Iran’s Progress in Maternal Health

On the occasion of the International Day of Midwives, which is celebrated annually on May 5, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) representative in Iran praised the country’s health system for achieving a remarkable 63% reduction in maternal mortality. The mortality rate decreased from 43 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2000 to 16 deaths in 2023.

Ayna Seyitliyeva, the UNFPA representative, credited this achievement primarily to Iran’s robust primary healthcare network, which integrates both prenatal and postnatal care. She noted that the contributions of nurse aides, health experts, and midwives were instrumental in this success.

“Midwives are crucial in ensuring that women have access to quality health services as a fundamental human right,” Seyitliyeva stated. She reiterated that they play a vital role in promoting maternal and newborn health and significantly contribute to reducing preventable deaths during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Despite the progress made, Seyitliyeva highlighted that the situation remains critical in certain regions due to disparities. In some areas, women face double or even higher risks of mortality due to complications arising from pregnancy and childbirth. She specifically pointed out that the highest mortality rates are observed in less developed regions, such as Sistan-Baluchestan.

Addressing the issue of inadequate care, which accounts for half of maternal deaths, Seyitliyeva assured that the UNFPA would continue to support Iran in implementing policies aimed at enhancing maternal health and obstetric services while striving to reduce maternal mortality rates.

The dedication of midwives and the continued efforts of health organizations underscore the importance of investing in maternal health services. As we commemorate International Midwifery Day, it is crucial to recognize and support the vital contributions of midwives to healthcare systems globally.

Similar Posts

  • Iran’s Bread Crisis: Mismanagement Sparks Nationwide Discontent and Unrest

    Iran’s bread supply chain is in crisis, affecting farmers, bakers, and consumers. Government interference has led to rising prices and declining quality, with a recent 52% increase in Tehran alone. Farmers struggle with delayed payments and high production costs, while bakers face unsustainable state-set prices. This has resulted in reduced loaf sizes and shop closures, causing long queues for consumers. Despite extensive subsidies, mismanagement leaves little relief, worsening public dissatisfaction. The bread crisis reflects deeper economic and political dysfunction in Iran, raising concerns about accessibility and health, as bread becomes increasingly unaffordable and scarce for the populace.

  • Heroic Rescues: Over 4,000 Individuals Saved from Devastating Blizzard Conditions

    Since Thursday, relief teams in Iran have been assisting over 4,000 individuals affected by severe snowstorms in 15 provinces. They have successfully rescued about 2,500 people trapped in blizzards and relocated them to safe shelters. With temperatures expected to drop further, the urgency of these efforts has increased. The Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) reported conducting 108 rescue missions, aiding nearly 2,649 people and freeing 960 stranded vehicles. Additionally, they provided emergency shelters, food, and basic goods. The IRCS continues to play a vital role in humanitarian efforts and is recognized for its extensive capabilities and international collaborations.

  • IRCS Emphasizes the Vital Role of Rehabilitation in Humanitarian Efforts

    Razieh Alishvandi, director of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) for international affairs, highlighted the importance of rehabilitation in humanitarian efforts during a recent workshop in Tehran. She emphasized that rehabilitation, which includes restoring mobility, independence, and psychological well-being, is essential for effective crisis management. The workshop aimed to familiarize participants with the IRCS’s rehabilitation services and promote international collaboration. Alishvandi noted the establishment of a joint secretariat with the International Committee of the Red Cross to enhance rehabilitation services in Iran. The IRCS operates around 200 rehabilitation centers, focusing on comprehensive support for individuals affected by crises.

  • This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more…

  • Faculty Exodus from Iran’s Universities: A Looming Crisis for Higher Education and Healthcare

    The exodus of faculty members from Iran’s universities, especially in medical fields, has alarmed educational authorities. Mohammad Jalili from the Ministry of Health noted the trend’s severity, stressing the loss of professors represents a significant national investment. To combat this, he suggested enhancing professors’ social status, improving living conditions, and streamlining recruitment processes. The crisis is widespread, with 53% of professors and 45% of medical professionals considering emigration. Financial constraints, including capped salaries, further exacerbate the issue. Without urgent reforms to improve conditions and compensation, Iran’s educational and healthcare systems face destabilization.

  • Child Adoption Soars: 2.5-Fold Increase Over the Last Decade

    Child adoption in Iran has increased significantly, rising 2.5 times in the past decade, with about 2,500 children adopted annually. Currently, 635 childcare centers support around 9,000 children, focusing on education and social skills. Recent legislative changes have expanded adoption eligibility, allowing children up to age 16 to be adopted and enabling single women and families with one child to apply. Financial obligations for adoptive families are now assessed individually by judges, moving away from previous property requirements. These developments reflect a commitment to providing loving homes and improving the lives of vulnerable children in Iran.