The world has made significant progress in reducing maternal deaths over the past two decades, but new threats could undo these hard-won gains, the United Nations has warned. A recent UN report shows that maternal mortality dropped by 40% between 2000 and 2023, marking a major milestone in global health. However, with funding cuts and slowing progress, millions of women, especially in vulnerable regions, remain at risk.

The report, released on World Health Day, reveals that despite the decline, pregnancy and childbirth are still dangerous for many women. In 2023 alone, an estimated 260,000 women died from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth—equivalent to one death every two minutes. While the improvement is notable, the progress has slowed since 2016, raising concerns about whether global health targets can be met.

Sub-Saharan Africa continues to bear the heaviest burden, accounting for about 70% of all maternal deaths worldwide. Countries facing conflict and instability, such as Chad, Nigeria, and Somalia, have the highest risks. In these regions, a 15-year-old girl faces a 1 in 51 chance of dying from maternal causes in her lifetime. In contrast, girls in more stable countries have a much lower risk—just 1 in 593.

The COVID-19 pandemic worsened the situation, leading to an estimated 40,000 additional maternal deaths in 2021. Many of these deaths were due to direct complications from the virus, as well as disruptions in healthcare services. Hospitals were overwhelmed, routine check-ups were delayed, and many women could not access critical care during childbirth.

Despite the progress made, the current global maternal mortality ratio remains high at 197 deaths per 100,000 live births. This is far above the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of fewer than 70 deaths per 100,000 births by 2030. With only six years left to meet this goal, the UN warns that time is running out.

“While this report shows glimmers of hope, the data also highlights how dangerous pregnancy still is in much of the world today,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). He stressed that improving access to quality maternity care is crucial, but so is strengthening women’s overall health and reproductive rights.

One of the biggest concerns now is the decline in international aid for maternal health programs. Many low-income and conflict-affected countries rely on foreign funding to support their healthcare systems. When this aid is cut, clinics lose resources, medical staff go unpaid, and essential medicines become scarce. As a result, women who once had access to care are now being left behind.

“Global funding cuts to health services are putting more pregnant women at risk,” said Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF. She called for urgent investment in midwives, nurses, and community health workers to ensure that mothers and babies have the best chance of survival.

The report emphasizes that nearly two-thirds of maternal deaths now occur in fragile and conflict-affected areas. In these places, healthcare systems are already weak, and women often struggle to reach medical facilities. Long distances, poor roads, and lack of transportation make it difficult for pregnant women to get help in emergencies. Without trained professionals and well-equipped hospitals, complications that could be easily managed elsewhere become life-threatening.

To prevent further setbacks, the UN is urging governments and donors to increase funding for maternal health. The report highlights the need for stronger health infrastructure, especially in humanitarian settings where access to care is limited. Investing in skilled birth attendants, emergency obstetric care, and family planning services could save countless lives.

Without immediate action, the progress made over the past 20 years could be reversed. More women could die from preventable causes, and the global goal of reducing maternal deaths could slip further out of reach. The UN’s warning is clear: the world must act now to protect the lives of mothers and ensure that every pregnancy is safe.

The fight against maternal mortality is far from over. While the 40% drop in deaths is a reason to celebrate, it also serves as a reminder that millions of women still face unnecessary risks. With continued commitment and investment, the world can build on this progress and create a future where no woman has to fear for her life when giving birth. But if funding dries up and support weakens, the gains of the past decades could disappear—leaving the most vulnerable women to pay the price.