In May, the International Day of the Midwife celebrated the essential role midwives play in providing safe, compassionate care amid increasing geopolitical instability and economic pressures. These celebrations acknowledge the clinical excellence and leadership of midwives on the frontlines. However, midwifery is still too often viewed solely through a clinical lens. The International Confederation of Midwives has emphasised the urgent need for investment in midwifery leadership, not only in practice but also in education and research, to safeguard the future of the profession.
The International Confederation of Midwives' Alliance to Improve Midwifery Education (Bar-Zeev et al, 2024) reinforces the importance of competency-based, evidence-informed curricula that rely on robust academic leadership. Despite their vital contributions, academic midwives and leaders remain under-recognised, under-resourced and undervalued (Chenery-Morris and Divers, 2024). Academic midwives influence national educational policy, spearhead research and ensure that new graduates are equipped for the realities of healthcare environments.
A key role in academic midwifery is the lead midwife for education, who holds statutory responsibilities vital to shaping curricula and protecting academic and regulatory standards. However, according to the most recent Royal College of Midwives' (RCM, 2023a) report, academic midwives face increasing strain in a sector already beset by broader challenges. High burnout rates and limited career progression are driving a concerning level of attrition among midwifery academics. If left unaddressed, this trend could undermine the long-term quality and sustainability of midwifery education and the UK's future midwifery workforce.
Both the RCM (2023a) and Chenery-Morris and Divers (2024) have highlighted ongoing concerns regarding academic workforce capacity and resilience. The lead midwife for education role is frequently marginalised in higher education institutions, with significant decisions about midwifery education made without their involvement (RCM, 2023b). The influence, pay and status of these midwives vary significantly across institutions, with 41% reporting exclusion from any senior strategic management group (RCM, 2023a).
Sustaining midwifery education demands a thriving academic culture supported by investment in research and protected time for scholarship. As we celebrate midwifery globally, we must not overlook those who make it possible. Academic midwives, researchers, educators and lead midwives for education are fundamental to the profession's development and integrity. Without decisive action to support and elevate academic midwifery, we risk undermining one of its most critical pillars. To truly honour midwives is to value the academic leadership that shapes and sustains them.