# Rising infant mortality and maternity care crisis in France > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/rising-infant-mortality-and-maternity-care-crisis-in-france > Updated: 2026-08-10T06:30:00.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. A report from the Inspection générale des affaires sociales (Igas) has highlighted a rise in infant mortality in France, which reached 4.1 deaths per 1,000 births in 2024. This rate places the country 23rd out of 27 European Union members. The findings reveal significant regional disparities, particularly in overseas departments like La Réunion, where the mortality rate is nearly double the mainland average. Factors contributing to these deaths include increased maternal age, higher rates of multiple pregnancies, and social inequalities. While the report suggests a need for coordinated action to improve perinatal care, medical professionals have criticized the current state of the healthcare system. Specifically, the Collège national des gynécologues et obstétriciens français (CNGOF) pointed to a critical shortage of human resources, noting that many maternity wards lack the minimum staffing required for safe care and facing a deficit of approximately 1,000 obstetrician-gynecologists. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-10: France maternity wards face crisis amid rising infant mortality France faces rising infant mortality rates, ranking 23rd in Europe. Experts warn of a healthcare crisis in maternity wards due to severe staffing shortages and outdated medical regulations. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/france-maternity-wards-face-crisis-amid-rising-infant-mortality ### 2026-08-06: France's infant mortality rises, Igas report highlights stark regional disparities Igas report shows France's infant mortality rose to 4.1 per 1,000 in 2024, with overseas departments like La Réunion at 6.9, driven by social inequalities and demographic factors; politicians demand action. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/frances-infant-mortality-rises-igas-report-highlights-stark-regional-disparities --- Cite as: Rising infant mortality and maternity care crisis in France. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/rising-infant-mortality-and-maternity-care-crisis-in-france