African women are 130 times more likely to succumb to pregnancy or childbirth complications compared to their counterparts in Europe and Northern America, according to the latest UNFPA report. The report reveals is rooted in systemic injustices and exacerbated by crises, these disparities underscore the imperative for tailored interventions and empowerment initiatives to safeguard reproductive rights universally.
UNVEILING INEQUALITIES
- Impact of Crisis and Discrimination: More than half of preventable maternal deaths occur in countries grappling with crisis or distress, with racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination hindering progress in sexual and reproductive health.
- Poverty and Marginalization: Women and girls ensnared in poverty, particularly from minority groups or conflict settings, face heightened mortality risks due to inadequate healthcare access, perpetuating cycles of premature death and suffering.
STALLED PROGRESS
- Global Advances and Challenges: Despite significant strides in sexual and reproductive health over three decades, progress is stalling in key areas, with 800 women still perishing daily from childbirth-related complications since 2016.
Disparities in Bodily Autonomy: Data reveals stagnation in women’s ability to assert bodily autonomy, with 40% of countries witnessing a decline, particularly among marginalized populations unable to access essential services.
“In the space of a generation, we have reduced the unintended pregnancy rate by nearly one fifth, lowered the maternal death rate by one third, and secured laws against domestic violence in more than 160 countries,” UNFPA Executive Director Natalia Kanem said, launching the report.
“The world made zero progress in saving women from preventable deaths in pregnancy and childbirth,” said Kanem, adding that for the first time, data was collected on whether women’s bodily autonomy is strengthening over time.
POCKETS OF INEQUALITY
- Regional Disparities: Disparities persist between global regions, with unequal access to contraceptives, safe birth services, and respectful maternity care perpetuating maternal mortality rates and obstructing reproductive rights.
- Ethnic and Indigenous Minorities: Women of African descent in the Americas and indigenous minorities worldwide face escalated maternal mortality risks, compounded by systemic discrimination and healthcare disparities.
EMPOWERING SOLUTIONS
- Tailored Interventions: Tailoring programs to community needs and empowering women and girls to innovate and implement solutions are pivotal steps toward addressing maternal health disparities and fostering sustainable progress.
- Investment for Impact: Strategic investments totalling $79 billion by 2030 in low and middle-income countries could avert millions of unplanned pregnancies, save lives, and generate substantial economic benefits, emphasizing the urgency of financial commitment.
CHAMPIONING REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS
Securing reproductive health rights demands collective action, with men urged to become champions alongside women in advocating for comprehensive reproductive rights for all individuals.
The UNFPA’s report illuminates the harsh realities of maternal health disparities worldwide, urging concerted efforts to dismantle systemic barriers, empower marginalized communities, and champion reproductive rights universally. Only through targeted interventions, strategic investments, and collective advocacy can we bridge the gaping divide in maternal health outcomes and pave the way for a future where every woman can thrive.