Global Maternal Mortality Trends Show Progress but Reveal Persistent Challenges

The latest UN report on global maternal mortality trends from 2000 to 2023 highlights both significant progress and critical gaps in maternal health worldwide. According to the UN Maternal Mortality Report, the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) dropped by 40% globally, from 328 to 197 deaths per 100,000 live births. Despite this advancement, the decline has slowed significantly since 2016, jeopardizing the goal of reaching an MMR of 70 by 2030.

Sub-Saharan Africa remains the region with the highest MMR, responsible for nearly 70% of all maternal deaths in 2023. In fragile and conflict-affected settings, maternal health statistics are even more alarming. The report estimates a lifetime risk of 1 in 55 for girls in these regions, compared to 1 in 21,000 in places like Australia and New Zealand. These disparities illustrate the urgent need for targeted health interventions and equitable resource distribution.

To address the UN maternal death reduction goals, nations must accelerate efforts by investing in quality health care systems, expanding access to midwifery and emergency obstetric services, and addressing the social determinants that disproportionately affect maternal outcomes.

The UN Maternal Mortality Report also reveals the devastating impact of under-resourced health infrastructure, especially in rural areas and humanitarian crisis zones. Nearly all maternal deaths are preventable, yet they persist due to delayed care, lack of medical supplies, and poor health literacy.

Global maternal mortality rate by country shows drastic variation, with nations like Nigeria accounting for more than 25% of all maternal deaths in 2023. Other countries with high rates include Chad, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan—most of which face systemic health care challenges tied to conflict or institutional fragility.

The path to reducing maternal mortality isn’t just clinical. Solutions must also address root causes such as gender inequality, poverty, and lack of education. A comprehensive strategy includes improving reproductive rights, ensuring safe abortion access, and investing in maternal mental health—areas often overlooked in policy discussions.

As the data suggests, if current trends continue, the global MMR in 2030 would be approximately 177—more than double the SDG target. Achieving the necessary 14.8% annual reduction rate will require coordinated international action, funding, and political will.

The report calls for multisectoral approaches that empower women, strengthen health systems, and ensure accountability. Countries like Rwanda and Sri Lanka show how targeted interventions—such as expanding midwifery programs—can drastically improve outcomes.

Despite the gains, one maternal death every two minutes remains a grim reality. The UN maternal death reduction goals are still within reach, but time is running out. The world must unite to ensure that every mother, regardless of geography or income, survives pregnancy and childbirth with dignity.