According to global reports by UNICEF, Pakistan ranks as the single most dangerous country in the world for newborn survival, with a risk ratio of 1 in 22. for every 1,000 babies born in Pakistan, about 46 die within their very first month. Globally, only Sudan and Nigeria have worse neonatal mortality rates.
Pims Was Not the First Time
The PIMS fire is a symptom of a broken system, not an accident. A spark quickly turned the ward into a death trap. 14 innocent newborn babies lost their lives. Just two months earlier, 20 children, mostly newborns, died at DHQ Hospital Pakpattan in a single week amid reports of systemic negligence and poor medical care.
The Broader Reasons Babies are Dying
Severe Underfunding: Low public healthcare spending leaves hospitals overcrowded, understaffed, and lacking essential infrastructure.
Shortage of Skilled Staff: A lack of trained midwives and neonatal doctors, especially in rural areas, forces many women to rely on unregistered clinics.
Maternal Malnutrition: High rates of anemia and poor nutrition contribute to premature births and low birth weights, putting newborns at greater risk.
Demand Systemic Reform
While the Prime Minister has suspended several health officials following the PIMS disaster, firing individuals won’t fix a broken system. UNICEF has called for urgent safety reforms across all healthcare centers. We must demand permanent structural changes, regular safety audits, and real accountability.