On May 5th, 2023, the International Day of the Midwife (IDM) was celebrated in Bangladesh. This day is dedicated to honoring and celebrating midwives around the world who save and transform lives every day. UNFPA, a global leader in sexual and reproductive health, has been advocating for quality midwifery care and working to strengthen and improve the midwifery sector in an estimated 125 countries, including Bangladesh.

The Directorate General of Nursing and Midwifery (DGNM) organized a colorful rally on the premises of Dhaka Nursing College (DNC) to observe IDM-2023, supported by UNFPA. The rally was led by Ms. Maksura Noor, Director General of DGNM, and UNFPA Bangladesh's Chief of Health, Dr. Vibhavendra Raghuyamshi also participated in the rally. Other directors and officials from DGNM and UNFPA, as well as midwives and students from various hospitals and midwifery educational institutions, took part in the rally.

The IDM 2023’s theme declared by the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) is “Together Again: from Evidence to Reality”, and the UNFPA theme for the International Day of the Midwife this year is “Actioning Evidence: Leading the Way to Enhance Quality Midwifery Care Globally.” UNFPA strongly advocates for standard education, regulations, workforce policies, and building effective associations of midwives to improve midwifery care globally.

Midwives play a vital role in ensuring safe childbirth and providing quality maternal and newborn care. However, many countries still lack access to skilled midwives, which contributes to preventable maternal and infant deaths. UNFPA is committed to supporting midwives and strengthening the midwifery sector to ensure that every woman has access to quality maternal and newborn care.

UNFPA is proud to celebrate and honor midwives around the world, including in Bangladesh, who work tirelessly to save lives and improve maternal and newborn health. We stand with midwives and continue to work towards enhancing quality midwifery care globally.