WHO Calls for Urgent Action to Protect Children on World Patient Safety Day
The World Health Organization (WHO) has marked this year’s World Patient Safety Day, observed globally on 17 September, with a call for urgent action to improve the quality and safety of care for newborns and children.
Under the theme “Safe care for every newborn and every child” and the slogan “Patient safety from the start!”, the campaign highlights the unique vulnerability of the youngest patients, millions of whom suffer avoidable harm each year while receiving medical treatment.
The situation is especially dire in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, where around 800,000 children died before their fifth birthday in 2023. Nearly 60% of these deaths occurred within the first month of life, caused largely by preventable conditions such as pre-term complications, infections, and poor access to safe delivery services. Conflict, fragile health systems, staff shortages, and limited essential supplies have further heightened the risks for children and newborns in the region.
WHO has warned that unless immediate steps are taken, high-burden countries will not meet global Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets on reducing neonatal and child mortality by 2030.
The organization is urging governments, donors, and development partners to invest in proven maternal and child health interventions. Evidence shows that every US$1 spent on maternal and newborn health can generate returns of US$9–20, making it not only one of the most impactful public health investments but also a critical driver of national development and stability.
