From maternal health risks to rising HIV/AIDS infections to diminishing reproductive rights, women face an array of health problems that put entire communities in danger.

Childbirth-related health statistics are a vivid example: One woman dies every minute of every hour—15,000 women every day—from pregnancy or childbirth-related causes. That equals at least 529,000 deaths per year, according to estimates by WHO, UNICEF, and UNFPA—or the equivalent of five 747 jumbo jets crashing and killing all passengers and crew every day (World Health Organization).

Health is intertwined with other needs and solving health inadequacies and inequalities requires a holistic approach. Equal access to healthcare, research into health issues that affect women in particular and reproductive rights are not concerns that can be dealt with in isolation or without a gender lens. Successful prevention of HIV/AIDS, for example, requires addressing violence against women and the unequal position of women in many communities.

The Women’s Funding Network’s member funds are partners with women and organizations on the ground, empowering communities by addressing health concerns in tandem with other human security rights.