Global Report on Maternal Mortality by UN Inter-Agency Group

Context

Recently, the United Nations Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG) released its latest findings on global maternal mortality trends that align with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.1.

This aims to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio (MMR) to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030.

About the Report

The report is launched by the Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG), comprising
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- UNICEF
- UNFPA
- World Bank Group
- UN DESA/Population Division
Key Highlights
- Global Progress: A 40% reduction in maternal deaths worldwide between 2000 and 2023.
- Regional Success: Central and Southern Asia recorded the highest decline in MMR — a 72.9% reduction during the same period.
- Country-wise Burden (2023):
  - Nigeria recorded the highest number of maternal deaths (~75,000).
  - India recorded ~19,000 maternal deaths, reflecting a downward trend but still a significant figure.

Significance of the report:

The report is a testament to improved maternal health services, particularly in Asia and it also highlights the need for continued investment in healthcare systems, especially in low-income countries.
The report plays a vital role in reminding that maternal health remains a key development challenge.

(Practice Question)

Q. With reference to the United Nations Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG), consider the following statements:

It is a collaborative effort of WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, the World Bank, and UN DESA.
It aims to reduce global maternal mortality to less than 100 per 100,000 live births by 2030.
According to its latest report, India recorded the highest number of maternal deaths globally in 2023.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 1 and 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A. 1 only

Note: Statement 2 is incorrect as the SDG target is less than 70 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. Statement 3 is incorrect as Nigeria, not India, recorded the highest maternal deaths