The well-being of mothers and newborns is the foundation of strong families and thriving communities. Yet, maternal and newborn mortality continues to be a pressing global challenge. In response, World Health Day 2025, observed on April 7, will launch a year-long campaign, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” calling on governments and healthcare leaders to intensify efforts to prevent maternal and newborn deaths and to prioritize women’s long-term health and well-being.

The urgency of this campaign is underscored by staggering statistics. Each year, nearly 300,000 women lose their lives due to complications during pregnancy or childbirth, while over two million newborns die within their first month, and an additional two million are stillborn. This amounts to one preventable death every seven seconds. Despite global efforts, progress remains slow, with four out of five countries currently off track to meet their 2030 targets for reducing maternal mortality. One in three nations is also expected to fall short of its goals to lower newborn deaths.

Ensuring that mothers and babies not only survive but also thrive requires a comprehensive approach to healthcare. Beyond immediate medical care, it is essential to address mental health issues, noncommunicable diseases, and access to family planning. Strengthening health systems must go hand in hand with policies that protect maternal and newborn health, ensuring women and families receive the legal and social support they need.

This campaign will serve as a global call to action, encouraging governments and health organizations to expand investments in maternal and newborn healthcare. By improving access to quality services, raising awareness about health risks, and fostering collective efforts to support families and medical professionals, the initiative aims to create lasting change. WHO and its partners will also provide vital health information on pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care, helping to empower families with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.

As the world unites to address these pressing issues, the message remains clear: every mother and baby deserves a healthy start in life. A strong beginning sets the foundation for a hopeful future, and through concerted efforts, maternal and newborn deaths can be significantly reduced, paving the way for healthier generations to come.