Lisbon, Portugal — In a landmark announcement at the 34th International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) Triennial Congress, Bangladesh has pledged to create and deploy 25,000 midwives across its public health system by 2030. The commitment, described as the largest investment in the country’s midwifery workforce in its history, aims to significantly improve maternal and newborn health outcomes.
Dr. S M Ziauddin Hyder, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Affairs, delivered the pledge on behalf of the Government of Bangladesh during the event in Lisbon.
“This initiative is part of a larger plan to build a preventive and modern health system,” Dr. Hyder stated, emphasizing Bangladesh’s dedication to advancing quality, respectful care for every woman and every newborn.
The announcement was warmly welcomed by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). UNFPA Executive Director Diene Keita highlighted the significance of the move, saying, “Bangladesh is showing the world that investing in midwives is investing in survival.”
Bangladesh participated in the “March for Midwives” alongside thousands of midwives, educators, partners, and advocates from around the world, calling for urgent investment in midwifery. The delegation included Bangladeshi midwives, Laila Muntajeri Deena, Chargé d’Affaires of the Bangladesh Embassy in Lisbon, and UNFPA Bangladesh Representative Catherine Breen Kamkong.aafca5
Midwives play a critical role in ensuring safe pregnancies, safe childbirths, and stronger health systems. Bangladesh, which has made notable progress in its midwifery program, expressed readiness to share its experiences and continue advancing maternal and newborn care globally.
This bold commitment underscores Bangladesh’s determination to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality and strengthen its healthcare infrastructure in line with international standards.