Midwives are the cornerstone of sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn and adolescent health services, playing a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the Asia-Pacific region. Universal access to midwife-delivered interventions could prevent the majority of maternal and neonatal deaths and stillbirths, saving millions of lives each year. Yet, despite significant gains since 2000, progress has slowed. In 2023 alone, hundreds of thousands of women died from preventable causes related to childbirth, and millions of newborns did not survive their first month, with a large share of these deaths occurring in the Asia-Pacific region. Recognizing this urgent need, UNFPA prioritizes investments in midwifery to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths and expand access to sexual and reproductive health services.

This report marks a key milestone in efforts to strengthen midwifery in the region. Drawing on data from 21 countries, it provides an up-to-date assessment of workforce availability, education quality, regulatory frameworks, and leadership structures. By highlighting both progress and persistent gaps, the report offers practical insights to guide policy dialogue, inform strategic planning, and support national initiatives that advance equitable, accessible healthcare for all - contributing directly to the health-related SDGs and the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere (EWENE) agenda.