On International Day of Peace, we are reminded of the ongoing war in Ukraine. There’s no peace for the people of Ukraine, especially for expectant mothers who are giving birth under the constant threat of war. Maternity care is now marked by air raid sirens, power outages, and the frequent need to move to underground shelters. Hospitals are forced to adapt quickly, making spaces that should be safe into places of uncertainty.

The ongoing stresses and fear from living in a conflict zone are taking a heavy toll on maternal health, leading to increased complications during childbirth. Some hospitals report a 12% rise in issues like preterm births and emergency C-sections since the war began. In the first half of this year, the World Health Organization verified 160 attacks on healthcare facilities, leaving 23% unable to provide essential maternal and newborn care.

For many women, giving birth now means navigating the physical demands of labor with the fear that an attack could occur at any moment. Hospitals have been forced to relocate maternity wards to basements and perform emergency procedures in darkness when power is lost. The psychological and physical strain on mothers and healthcare workers is immense, affecting the quality of care and the well-being of newborns.

UNFPA is providing critical support to help bridge the gaps, supplying mobile health units, equipment, and essential medical supplies to ensure that care continues even under the most difficult conditions. We are committed to supporting healthcare providers who continue to work tirelessly, despite the challenges they face daily.

The reality is harsh: there’s no peace for the people of Ukraine. Every mother deserves the right to a safe birth without the constant threat of violence. As we reflect on this day dedicated to peace, we must recognize the ongoing need for safety and stability in Ukraine. Our commitment to supporting women and ensuring access to essential maternal care remains firm. There’s no peace for the people of Ukraine, but we will continue to support their rights and dignity.

Massimo Diana, UNFPA Ukraine Representative