One Million More Midwives – empowered, respected, resourced, and enabled to lead!

Global Midwifery Leadership at the International Confederation of Midwives Triennial Congress, Lisbon

Kelda Folliard

I was delighted to have the opportunity to attend the 34^th International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) triennial congress for the first time, this time taking place in Lisbon. It was every bit as inspiring and energising as I had heard it would be. Bringing together midwives from across the world, this was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a global profession unites around a shared commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of women, birthing people, babies, families and communities.

One of the most striking aspects of the conference was the opportunity to hear midwives from diverse countries and settings share their experiences, challenges, innovations and wisdom. Despite differences in geography, culture and healthcare systems, there was a common thread running through every conversation: a deep commitment to providing compassionate, evidence-based care and advocating for better outcomes for women and families.

The sharing of midwifery research was so strong! Across four packed days of presentations, workshops and hundreds of posters, the quality, breadth and impact of the research presented demonstrated the growing strength of the profession and its contribution to improving maternity care worldwide. From clinical practice to education, leadership and policy, investing in midwifery improves health outcomes, strengthens healthcare systems and creates lasting benefits for communities.

The message about midwives was clear. Building midwifery capacity is not a cost – it is a smart investment. Investment in midwives leads to healthier women and birthing people, healthier babies, stronger families and more resilient societies. Likewise, gender equity and women’s health should never be viewed as expenses to be justified. They are investments that generate social, economic and health benefits across generations and across the globe.

Equally powerful were the conversations about leadership. Midwifery and maternal health leaders across the globe were consistent in their message: do not wait for permission to lead. Leadership is not confined to titles or positions. Every midwife is a leader, whether working in clinical practice, education, research, management or policy settings. Every interaction, every decision and every act of advocacy has the potential to influence positive change.

The collective passion, expertise and determination present in Lisbon was a reminder of the extraordinary power of midwives. As a profession, we are uniquely positioned to improve health outcomes, advance gender equity and shape the future of maternity care. The conference left me feeling hopeful, motivated and proud to be part of a global community that continues to champion evidence-based care, drive innovation and advocate for the rights and wellbeing of women and birthing people everywhere.

As I reflect on my time in Lisbon, I return home with renewed energy and optimism. The future of midwifery is being shaped by dedicated professionals around the world who are not only delivering excellent care but also generating new knowledge, influencing policy and leading change. Together, midwives have the power to create healthier families, stronger communities and a better future for societies across the globe.

Lend your support to the ICM campaign for One Million More Midwives here!