A disturbing statistic
Imagine a country like France, which prides itself on being progressive and protective, ranking 23rd out of 27 in Europe for infant mortality. Hard to believe, isn’t it? Yet, it’s a reality. What’s even more troubling is that just a few decades ago, we were among the top performers.
Behind the numbers, shattered lives
We often talk about “mortality rates,” about “statistics,” but what it really means is that babies don’t survive. Families see their world crumble before it’s even begun. These aren’t just numbers. These are lives.
Why are we in this situation?
The problem doesn’t have a single cause. Several factors are intertwined:
- Unequal access to healthcare : Depending on whether you live in a city or the countryside, the conditions for childbirth and medical follow-up are not the same.
- A healthcare system under strain
- : Fewer staff, maternity wards closing, less rigorous monitoring… All of this has direct consequences.
Difficult social conditions
: Financial insecurity plays a huge role. When every euro counts, some families don’t always have the means to access the necessary care.
Why the silence?
This ranking should be front-page news. Yet, it goes almost unnoticed. Is it because it concerns the most vulnerable, those who cannot speak out? Because babies don’t vote? This indifference is as outrageous as the problem itself.
- What can be done? There are solutions, and they are within our reach:
- Invest in maternal health : More resources, more professionals, more support.
- Help families : Support shouldn’t stop at birth. Psychological, social, and medical support can make all the difference. Speak out
: The more visible the issue, the more things can change. This problem must not be left in the shadows.
We can no longer turn a blind eye. Some countries have succeeded in reducing infant mortality. Why not us? It’s not inevitable; it’s a matter of will. The real question is: when will we finally take action?
And you, do you have any experience or opinion on this subject? Share your perspective.
