Preterm birth and human rights

7 December 2023
Departmental news
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This year on December 10th, Human Rights Day commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These rights belong to all people, without discrimination, including to the most vulnerable citizens, such as babies born preterm and their mothers.

Preterm birth does not stop in times of crisis, and neither should access to high-quality, life-saving care. Yet, currently there is a “silent emergency” claiming one million tiny lives born premature each year, most of which are preventable deaths. Preterm birth is the leading cause of deaths among children under five, accounting for nearly 1 in 5 child deaths. One in 10 babies are born too soon each year, and are at risk, especially in the most fragile countries affected by humanitarian crises. Preterm birth rates have not changed in any region of the world in the past decade, hindering human potential and national progress. In fact, neonatal conditions, led by preterm birth, remain the largest single health burden worldwide across all ages and in all regions, with many painful stories often unheard.

To elevate awareness about rights relating to preterm birth emphasized by the Born Too Soon Campaign, PMNCH has partnered with Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng, the United Nations' Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health, to present a video that emphasizes what is needed.

Human rights are central to addressing preterm birth prevention and care. The fundamental rights of women, babies and their families include, but are not limited to: access to high-quality care, (including developmental care), informed consent, being together, not being detained, and not being discriminated against. These rights can only be realized by protecting the rights of those who deliver the care: the health-care providers.

Ensuring that the rights and respect relating to preterm birth are upheld will require action across the continuum of care, across sectors, and with strong partnerships between the mother–baby dyad and health-care providers. Rights-based care for preterm birth includes scaling up respectful care practices among healthcare workers as well as empowering and partnering with women and families in every step of the process. The rights of healthcare providers need to be protected, especially midwives and nurses who are at the frontline of care and are often underpaid, disrespected and burnt out.

The 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, therefore, serves as a poignant reminder of the need to prioritize and safeguard the rights of the most vulnerable members of society, including preterm babies, their mothers, and those who care for them.

Learn more about opportunities for actions at borntoosoonaction.org.