Basic Information
International Day to End Obstetric Fistula is an annual event observed on May 23 to promote action towards treating and preventing obstetric fistula, a condition that affects many girls and women in developing countries.
Observed on: May 23
Organized by: UN, UNFPA
Introduced in: 2012 (UN Proclamation)
Observed: Worldwide
About International Day to End Obstetric Fistula
Every year May 23 is observed as International Day to End Obstetric Fistula. This United Nations (UN) international day is observed to promote action towards treating and preventing obstetric fistula, a condition that affects many girls and women in developing countries.
In 2012, United Nation proclaimed May 23 to observe as International Day to End Obstetric Fistula. The first of this day was observed in 2013.
Obstetric fistula is one of the most serious and tragic injuries that can occur during childbirth. This condition is almost entirely preventable. Poor people those who have no access to modern health services are likely to suffer from obstetric fistula. So, it is considered as a failure to protect health and human rights of the poorest and vulnerable women and girls.
Activities and Programs on the Day
Events and programs on this day include a special observance at the United Nations with the participation of fistula survivors. Activities are conducted to support programs to raise awareness of this issue and mobilize support around the globe. Some programs include film shows about empowering women living with fistula. Discussions, question answer sessions, seminars, competitions to project the importance of the day. Campaign and awareness programs are conducted with an aim to end obstetric fistula. #EndFistula
Theme for International Day to End Obstetric Fistula
International Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2020 Theme is “End gender inequality! End health inequities! End Fistula now!“
Theme for Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2019 was “Fistula is a human rights violation—end it now!”
Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2018 Theme was “Leaving no one behind: Let us commit to ending fistula now!“
2017 Theme: hope, healing, and dignity for all
2016 Theme: End fistula within a generation
2015 Theme: End fistula, restore women’s dignity
2014 Theme: Tracking Fistula – Transforming Lives