Yemen reports the highest maternal mortality rate in the Middle East amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.

The United Nations has confirmed that Yemen holds the highest maternal mortality rate in the Middle East. Currently, 9.6 million women and girls urgently require life-saving humanitarian assistance. These individuals face severe challenges, including hunger, violence, and a collapsing healthcare system, which exacerbate their suffering.

Urgent Appeal from UN Relief Coordinator

During a briefing to the Security Council, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher highlighted the catastrophic impact of funding cuts on women and girls in Yemen. He painted a grim picture of the situation, noting that over 6 million women and girls are at increased risk of abuse and exploitation due to systemic discrimination and exclusion.

Rising Health Risks for Pregnant Women

Fletcher reported that 1.3 million pregnant women and new mothers suffer from malnutrition, endangering their lives and the lives of their children. This malnutrition leads to long-term health issues. Additionally, 1.5 million Yemeni girls remain out of school, depriving them of education and hindering their chances to escape cycles of poverty and violence. Alarmingly, nearly one-third of girls in Yemen marry before the age of 18, robbing them of their childhood, education, and future prospects.

Funding Cuts Threaten Essential Services

Fletcher warned that the humanitarian response in Yemen faces severe funding cuts, jeopardizing essential services for women and girls. He explained that the suspension of funding has already led to the closure of 22 safe centers, denying over 11,000 women and girls access to critical support and services.

Impact on Healthcare and Child Protection

This crisis has halted life-saving healthcare services, as well as psychological support and legal assistance programs for survivors of gender-based violence. Furthermore, the suspension of child protection programs has increased the risks of child labor, recruitment into armed groups, and child marriage, further worsening the humanitarian crisis in the country.

The situation in Yemen demands immediate attention and action. The international community must respond to the urgent needs of women and girls to prevent further deterioration of their conditions. Without adequate support, the lives of millions remain at risk, and the future of an entire generation hangs in the balance.

 

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