One Million More Midwives March – Lisbon 2026
At every ICM Congress, we march for midwives and women’s rights.
This year, the march carries a message that is more urgent than ever: the world needs one million more midwives.
On Saturday, 13 June, midwives, students, educators, researchers, families, partners and supporters will come together in Lisbon to make that call visible, loud and impossible to ignore.
The One Million More Midwives March is a moment for the global midwifery community to stand together, celebrate the profession and demand the investment midwives need so women, newborns and communities can get the care they deserve.
Bring your voice, bring your energy and, most importantly, bring your sign.
Make your message visible
We want Lisbon to see midwives.
Bring flags, banners, placards, traditional dress, association colours, drums, instruments and anything that helps show the strength and diversity of midwifery around the world.
Your sign does not need to be professional. It just needs to be seen.
Use cardboard from home. Write your message by hand. Paint it. Draw it. Add colour. Keep it simple. Make it bold.
Tell the world why we need one million more midwives.
Need a sign?
Join us at 13:00 outside the Lisbon Congress Centre for sign-making before the march.
Come with a message, an idea or just your energy. We will help you get ready.
Bring your friends and family
The more people who march, the stronger our message.
If you live in Lisbon, invite your friends, family, neighbours and community to join us. If you are travelling to Congress with friends or family, bring them along too.
This march is for everyone who believes women deserve access to quality midwifery care. Together, we can fill the streets with energy, colour and support for midwives around the world.
Where to meet
Meeting point: Estação Fluvial Belém
March route: Estação Fluvial Belém to Lisbon Congress Centre (1.7 km)
Please check the map for the exact meeting location and route.
Programme
13:00 – Sign-making outside the Lisbon Congress Centre
15:30 – Gathering at Estação Fluvial Belém
15:45 – 16:15/16:30 – One Million More Midwives March, accompanied by the Euterpe Drummers
16:30 – 18:00 – Celebration programme in front of the Lisbon Congress Centre
Featuring:
- Premiere of the official Congress song “Together” by Abelone Melesse
- Special appearance by Catarina Furtado
- Midwives’ Association performances, including singing and dancing from around the world.
18:30 – Event closure
Learn the Congress song
Listen to the official congress song “Together” and learn the dance before Lisbon. We want as many people as possible singing, moving and bringing the energy of midwives into the streets.
Food, water and sun protection
Food trucks and refreshments will be available on site throughout the afternoon and evening.
Warm weather is expected. Please bring a refillable water bottle, wear sunscreen, bring a hat and wear comfortable shoes.