Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Global Maternal Deaths Drop 40%, But Funding Cuts Loom

4/9/2025

31 4

Summary

UN Report Highlights Progress

A groundbreaking UN report shows a remarkable 40% drop in maternal deaths worldwide from 2000 to 2023, thanks to better healthcare access. Yet, looming funding cuts jeopardize this progress, putting essential maternal health services at risk. In 2023 alone, around 260,000 women lost their lives to pregnancy-related complications, underscoring the urgent need for continued support, especially in conflict zones.

Summary

Shaheen Warns Aid Cuts

The Trump administration's drastic $1.3 billion cut to U.S. foreign aid endangers millions battling hunger and poverty. Senator Jeanne Shaheen cautioned that these reductions could lead to rising maternal deaths and restrict contraception access for 50 million women, further destabilizing vulnerable regions like Afghanistan. The stakes have never been higher.

1 of 2

UN Report Highlights Progress

A groundbreaking UN report shows a remarkable 40% drop in maternal deaths worldwide from 2000 to 2023, thanks to better healthcare access. Yet, looming funding cuts jeopardize this progress, putting essential maternal health services at risk. In 2023 alone, around 260,000 women lost their lives to pregnancy-related complications, underscoring the urgent need for continued support, especially in conflict zones.

1 / 2