International Midwives Day, celebrated each year on May 5th, is an opportunity for every midwife to reflect on the many others in the profession, forge new connections within and beyond midwifery and expand their understanding of what midwives do for the world. The world is facing an unprecedented number of escalating crises: natural disasters, conflicts, and the ongoing impacts of climate change. These crises disproportionately affect women, girls and gender-diverse people, exposing them to increased risks such as pregnancy complications and gender-based violence while also limiting their access to essential health services. In these challenging times, midwives are critical. They are trusted first responders within their communities and can prepare health systems for any crisis. Even during humanitarian crises, they can provide up to 90% of sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn and adolescent health services.

Event suggestions:
• Hosting reflective conversations that turn awareness into community action
• Sharing lived experiences through guided empathy and learning circles
• Creating resource displays supporting inclusion, care, and understanding