What is so controversial about a woman having a trusted person by her side during childbirth? This is the question that the “Baby Steps” Association has been addressing to institutions in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina for months, following the halt of a Draft Law that would have opened a public debate on the right of mothers to have a birth companion during labor and delivery in the House of Peoples of the Parliament of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

As part of the “Birth Companion: From Initiative to Law” campaign, implemented with the support of the PRAGG project, Baby Steps is advocating for a systemic solution that would grant women in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina the right to be accompanied by a person of their choice throughout the entire childbirth process. It is important to emphasize that, at this stage, the issue is not the final adoption of the law, but rather the Draft Law and the opportunity to finally hold a public debate on the rights of mothers.

“Why is it a problem for a woman to have a trusted person by her side during childbirth? Why is the ‘profession’ against it? And which ‘profession’? Who was consulted? Who adopted such a position? On the basis of which expert evidence and recommendations?” Baby Steps asks.

They point out that the right to a birth companion is neither a luxury, a privilege, nor a matter of the goodwill of an individual maternity ward. It is a matter of dignity, safety, and more humane healthcare. This is precisely why the issue should not remain trapped in procedures, especially not at a stage where space should merely be opened for women, families, professionals, and institutions to discuss it publicly.

“Who is so afraid of finally putting this issue to a vote? If you are against a woman’s right to have a person of her choice with her during childbirth, raise your hand and say you are against it. If you are in favor, raise your hand and say you are in favor. But avoiding a vote for months? Who is afraid to take a public position, and why?” the Association stated.

The Association emphasizes that the deadlines have expired, yet a decision has still not been made. They note that compliance with the Constitution and procedures is not a matter of choice but an obligation of institutions, and that a public debate is the very least that institutions currently owe to mothers.

Through the campaign supported under the PRAGG project, Baby Steps continues to insist on institutional accountability and respect for procedures. Following months of warnings, the Association has also announced legal action regarding the conduct of responsible individuals and institutions, about which the public will be informed in greater detail.

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