MEP Marc Angel (S&D) has asked the European Commission whether its draft delegated act updating minimum training requirements for midwives under Directive 2005/36/EC adequately reflects updated international standards from the World Health Organization and the International Confederation of Midwives. The question, tabled on 1 July 2026, seeks to ensure that the revision aligns with current evidence-based care, perinatal mental health, neonatal care, and sexual and reproductive healthcare.
first, that the Commission detail how international competency frameworks and scientific evidence were assessed in preparing the draft; second, whether further updates based on broad professional consensus could be incorporated before finalisation. The MEP frames the revision as a critical opportunity to improve care for millions of women across the EU, given midwives' central role in pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care.
The question signals a push for higher and more harmonised training standards, potentially impacting midwifery education providers, national regulatory bodies, healthcare systems, and ultimately patients. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its answer will indicate whether it intends to adopt the draft as is or integrate additional updates based on international benchmarks.