06.11.2025, 9h30-17h00, online

Midwives play a crucial role in maternity care worldwide. But did you know that their responsibilities and positions can vary greatly between countries? These differences offer valuable insights for research, innovation, and improving practice. What works in one country may require adaptation in another healthcare system. That’s why understanding each other’s context is essential.
On November 6, 2025, the Midwifery Science research group Northern Netherlands is organizing a unique international working conference. Midwifery researchers and healthcare professionals from six countries will share how maternity care is organized in their countries and what role midwives play in their systems.
This event is free and accessible online to a broad audience. Midwives, researchers, client representatives, and policymakers are warmly invited to participate.

Chair of the day:
Prof. Dr. Ank de Jonge – Amsterdam UMC, UMC Groningen, Midwifery Science
Keynote Speaker:
Prof. Dr. Cornelis Boersma – University of Groningen, UMC Groningen
A global perspective on healthcare systems and the position of healthcare professionals
Contributions from:
Belgium: Prof. Dr. Katrien Beeckman – Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Canada: Dr. Beth Murray Davis – McMaster Midwifery Research Centre, Ontario
Germany: Prof. Dr. Nicola Bauer – University of Cologne
Ireland: Prof. Dr. Deirdre Daly – Trinity Centre for Maternity Care Research, Dublin
Norway: Dr. Hege Skytte – University of Oslo
Australia: Prof. Dr. Allison Cummins – University of Newcastle
The Netherlands: Renate Simmelink, MSc – Amsterdam UMC

The conference language is English.