The 2015 challenge: Making pregnancy and birth safer across the world.

This article considers some of the achievements and challenges surrounding global efforts to reduce the high toll of maternal and neonatal deaths and disease. Since its inception in 1987, the Safe Motherhood Initiative has underpinned endeavours to make childbirth safer for women, particularly the poorest and most vulnerable. Reflecting on pertinent historical issues, considering examples of current achievements and speculating on the future, the paper provides insights into the challenges of midwifery practice worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]