Statement
G-8 Muskoka Initiative on Maternal, Newborn and Child Health
27 June 2010
NEW YORK — UNFPA welcomes the commitment by Group of 8 leaders in the Muskoka Initiative at the G-8 Summit to accelerate efforts to improve maternal and child health.
Even though the number of women who die from preventable causes during pregnancy and childbirth seems to be declining, far too many mothers still die every day, which has a devastating impact on families, communities and nations. Given the wealth and technology of the 21st century, no woman should die giving life.
By advancing the health and rights of girls and women, we will improve the lives of current and future generations.
UNFPA strongly supports the Muskoka Initiative's emphasis on strengthening health systems, expanding sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning, addressing gender inequality and promoting the human rights of girls and women. We support integrated health services, especially integration of sexual and reproductive health and HIV/AIDS, to reach those in need. And we will continue to support health worker training, especially midwives, to save the lives of women and babies.
The Muskoka Initiative signifies renewed commitment to maternal and child health, and UNFPA will continue to support national efforts and mutual accountability for achieving greater progress to improve women's and children's health.
