KABUL, Afghanistan — The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has reported that one-third of women in Afghanistan give birth outside of health facilities, posing significant risks to their lives.
In a recent report, UNICEF highlighted that while expectant mothers should have at least four antenatal visits with a skilled provider, only one-third of Afghan women receive such care. The report emphasized the dangers associated with giving birth without medical assistance, noting that the lives of both mothers and infants are at serious risk.
UNICEF, in partnership with the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, has supported over 27,000 health workers in Afghanistan to address this issue. The agency ensures that the 2,500 health facilities it supports are equipped with continuous electricity and water supply, according to the report.
These efforts come amid restrictive measures imposed by the Taliban on women’s education and employment, which human rights organizations and aid groups have identified as major factors undermining Afghanistan’s healthcare sector.
