Information Series on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights: Maternal Mortality and Morbidity

The purpose of the information series is to provide detailed guidance for lawmakers, policymakers, judiciaries, health service providers, civil society and other stakeholders, to support the adoption and  effective implementation of laws, policies and programmes to respect, protect and fulfill women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). This panel will focus on discussing the legal standards underpinning sexual and reproductive health and rights, good practices from across regions in securing women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights, and identify opportunities to advance work and continued advocacy and engagement on this issue.

Often seen as a public health concern, the issue of maternal mortality and morbidity must also be understood as a matter of human rights. International human rights treaties have clarified States’ obligations in relation to maternal mortality and morbidity and recognized violations of women’s rights to life, to the highest attainable standard of health, and to equality and non-discrimination in this regard.