28/05/2024
I, as a midwife, support the International Confideration of Midwives (ICM) call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza in view of the humanitarian crises which is predominantly affecting women and children including pregnant women, mothers, babies and midwives.
According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), over 33000 people have been killed since October 2023, 70% of whom are women and children. This does not include people trapped under rubble, estimated to be around 10,000.
There are more than 50,000 pregnant women and around 68,000 breastfeeding women in Gaza at the moment. More than 180 births occuring each day in unimaginable conditions.
UNFPA states that there has been a rise in premature births and babies with low birth weights. There is also a rise in caesarian sections, happening in dangerous conditions often without access to basic supplies like water or aneasthetics.
Miscarriages have increased by 300%.
All but three maternity hospitals have been destroyed or closed, and those that are open are overwhelmed with demand.
ICM states that: „Even if they are not pregnant, women and girls face difficulties dealing with their reproductive health. Menstrual pads are inaccessible for over two-thirds of the women and girls in Palestine, with an extreme shortage of toilets and showers“.
This leads to a high rise of infections.
I, with ICM call for:
An immediate ceasefire in Gaza
Release of all hostages
An immediate end to the attacks on hospitals in Gaza
The protection of health staff, patients and civilians, including midwives
The establishment of reliable entry points for relief supplies and humanitarian aid
Immediate action to protect, promote and respect the right to life, health and dignity
We midwives must stand against genocide and must always advocate for human rights and justice for all.
I hearby condem all forms of islamophobia, antisemitism, racism or discrimination.
