Maternal health in rural Pakistan after USAID funding cuts: emerging risks and policy implications

Maternal health plays a pivotal role in the achievement of sustainable development, with significant implications for the well-being of societies globally. This editorial explores the critical intersection of maternal health and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly focusing on the reduction of maternal mortality and the prevention of child deaths. Based on an in-depth review of national reports and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) data, the role of international aid and the contributions of USAID to maternal health in Pakistan, where funding cuts have led to the closure of essential health facilities and a resurgence of health challenges, has been examined. The editorial discusses the impact of these cuts on maternal health outcomes, especially in rural areas, and highlights the importance of local public–private partnerships in sustaining maternal health programs. Furthermore, it addresses the need for continued investment in family planning services, healthcare worker training, and infrastructure development to ensure the long-term success of maternal health initiatives. The editorial concludes by calling for coordinated efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of foreign aid reductions and to promote sustainable solutions for improving maternal health in Pakistan and other similar settings.