Geri Halliwell helps launch parliamentary report
Pictured are: Baroness Jenny Tonge, Geri Halliwell and Christine McCafferty MP
London, 6 May - In celebration of International Day of the Midwife, Marie Stopes International (MSI) was delighted to join Sarah Brown and Geri Halliwell in the launch of ‘Better off Dead?’, the UK All Party Parliamentary Group on Population, Development and Reproductive Health (APPG) Maternal Morbidity Hearing Report.
Geri, who is a UN Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has helped to highlight maternal mortality and sexual health issues in the developing world on previous occasions through her work with MSI.
“Women are at the heart of their families, communities and countries. Their health and survival has a huge impact on the economy and the environment, and on peace and stability” said Geri Halliwell.
Every year, millions of women and girls are affected by long-term physical, psychological, social and economic problems due to the illnesses and injuries suffered as a result of pregnancy and childbirth. Many of them are abandoned, ostracised and alone.
"MSI was involved in the publication of this report every step of the way and we are very proud to have played a part in drawing attention to this devastating yet little known issue. The lives of millions of women are destroyed unnecessarily by injuries that are easily preventable.
"Solutions to improving maternal health already exist: better access to family planning, safe abortion, skilled birth attendants and emergency obstetric care. All we need now is sufficient political will and resources to put an end women’s suffering. We hope that this report will act as a catalyst for change" said Anne Quesney, Head of Advocacy.
The event was held in collaboration with the White Ribbon Alliance and International Planned Parenthood Federation.
For a copy of the report, please visit www.appg-popdevrh.org.uk