A pivotal moment for our profession is set to take place at the upcoming UNESCO meetings (December 4-9, 2023), focusing on the inclusion of Midwifery in the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This initiative, led by eight countries and supported by midwives’ associations around the world, represents a significant opportunity to globally acknowledge the practice of midwifery, and gain recognition for the needs of midwives and the communities they support.

The joint application by Colombia, Cyprus, Germany, Kyrgyz Republic, Luxembourg, Nigeria, Slovenia, and Togo demonstrates the diverse yet universal nature of midwifery — every society has its own unique approach and history surrounding pregnancy and childbirth, but regardless of the location, midwives are responsible for supporting and influencing how we come into this world, underscoring the adaptability and relevance of midwifery across cultures. The nominating countries also prepared an impactful video on the work of midwives.

Beyond its deep roots in cultural traditions, midwifery has inspired various art forms, including literature, painting, music, and film. This recognition by UNESCO would not only reflect the historical contributions of midwifery but also its ongoing role in society. In short, the nomination of Midwifery for the UNESCO list is not just an accolade; it would validate the profession's historical and contemporary importance, promoting its preservation and continued practice.