First Regional Human Rights in Childbirth Conference to Explore Problems in Maternity Care in Central and Eastern Europe
Advocates, Researchers, Providers and Attorneys from 25 Countries in Europe and beyond are Gathering in Zagreb on April 16-17
Zagreb, Croatia (April 11) – More than a hundred attorneys, human rights advocates, researchers, midwives, doctors, students and parents will gather in Zagreb on April 16 and 17 for the first regional conference on Human Rights in Childbirth in Central and Eastern Europe. The conference will be held at Hotel Dubrovnik and is organized by RODA – Parents in Action, a Croatian consumer organization, and Human Rights in Childbirth, an international NGO based in The Hague.
A recent social media campaign in Croatia has highlighted the need for accountability for violations of women’s rights in childbirth. More than 500 women submitted testimonies of disrespect and abuse they suffered while giving birth in maternity wards. Similar campaigns throughout countries in Central and Eastern Europe have brought attention to the striking similarities in abuse and disrespect women face in childbirth. From restrictions on accessing healthcare for out-of-hospital birth, to the wide-spread use of informal payments to secure respectful treatment at birth, and the high incidence of Cesarean sections, the rights of women are at stake in every aspect of maternity care.
The conference will explore recent research that highlights the importance of placing the needs of women and their newborn infants at the center of maternity care and providing skilled midwifery care for everyone. A representative of the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics will present a new initiative on making hospitals mother-and-baby friendly. Advocates will discuss successful advocacy campaigns to raise awareness of violations of women’s rights in childbirth. Participants will also explore possible accountability mechanisms for violations on the local, European and international level.
WHAT: Human Rights in Childbirth Regional Conference
WHERE: Hotel Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Croatia or online at
WHEN: April 16-17
There are a limited number of press passes available for access to live streaming. Please contact the Hellnic Action for Human Rights - "Pleiades" for more information.
