Topic:
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Silas Fetrow
Maternal Mortality
Maternal mortality remains one of the most urgent global health and human rights issues facing the international community today. Every year, hundreds of thousands of women die from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth—deaths that are overwhelmingly preventable. As a developed nation with a strong public health system, the Commonwealth of Australia recognizes both its responsibility and its capacity to lead cooperative international efforts aimed at reducing maternal mortality worldwide.
Domestically, Australia maintains a comparatively low maternal mortality ratio due to accessible prenatal care, trained medical personnel, and a strong emphasis on patient safety. However, the Australian government acknowledges that disparities persist, particularly among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, who face significantly higher maternal mortality rates than non-Indigenous Australians. This gap underscores the importance of culturally informed healthcare, improved rural medical access, and continued investment in midwifery and community-based maternal services. Australia’s national commitment to equitable healthcare forms a key part of its perspective in international negotiations.
Internationally, Australia supports global initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 3.1, which aims to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to fewer than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. Through its foreign aid programs, Australia has funded maternal health projects in the Indo-Pacific region, focusing on emergency obstetric care, professional training for local health workers, and increased access to reproductive health services. Australia believes that empowering women and girls through education and healthcare access is essential to long-term reductions in maternal deaths.
Australia encourages the World Health Organization to strengthen multilateral strategies that emphasize prevention, data transparency, and local capacity-building. The delegation advocates for policies that expand reproductive healthcare, support skilled birth attendants, and ensure that every woman—regardless of geography or socioeconomic status—can give birth safely. Furthermore, Australia supports increased collaboration with NGOs, regional partners, and UN agencies to deliver targeted, culturally responsive aid to areas with the highest need.
In conclusion, Australia is committed to addressing maternal mortality as both a public health issue and a fundamental world health concern. By combining domestic experience with international cooperation, Australia seeks to advance globally sustainable improvements in maternal health and uphold the dignity and safety of women everywhere.
