Topic:
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Rishika Kokkula
UN Women
Improving maternal health
The Arab Republic of Egypt
Rishika Kokkula
Forest Hills Eastern High School
Maternal health is defined by the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and post-birth. The United Nations has continued to improve maternal health over the years through coordination across many committees and nations. In the past, the United Nations set the goal to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. However, more than 800 women continue to die every day from complications due to pregnancy and childbirth. Considering this, maternal health and reducing maternal mortality worldwide remains a pressing issue that requires specific attention from the United Nations.
Egypt recognizes the importance of recognizing maternal health as an issue to be addressed by the United Nations. Over the years, Egypt has modernized its healthcare system, dramatically improving maternal and child health in the country. In the 1970s, the government in Egypt partnered with USAID to develop healthier families. This increased access to timely medical care and decreased maternal mortality rates by over 70 percent. Egypt has accepted and greatly appreciated US help and investments in bettering healthcare systems and modernizing hospitals and clinical skills of healthcare workers.
However, Egypt recognizes that not all countries are fortunate enough to endure these changes to their healthcare systems to reduce maternal mortality rates. Statistically, most maternal health issues occur in developing countries where access to healthcare is limited. Over 90 percent of all maternal deaths occur in developing counties. Women across the world need maternal aid before, during, and after childbirth. Recognizing this, Egypt fully supports expanding and developing healthcare systems in third-world countries. Egypt urges USAID to assist other countries that need help in modernizing and improving their healthcare facilities. We believe that the first step in reducing maternal mortality and improving maternal health lies in assisting third-world and developing countries where access to healthcare is severely limited. Consistent efforts of Egypt and other organizations in collaboration have proved hopeful for a future with substantially improved maternal health.
