The Cochrane Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Thematic Group (MNC) serves as a central hub for innovation, research, evidence-based clinical practice and health policy, community, and global impact for maternal child health. The MNC is divided into three thematic hubs (Maternal, Newborn, and Child) and five technical hubs (Steering & coordination, Methods & training, Author support, Community engagement, and Patients, families, caregivers & public), with international leaders across all hubs. The MNC is making progress on a three-year strategic plan setting the foundational infrastructure and strategic priorities.
All thematic groups are currently in the process of completing an interest holder mapping, which aims to create a living overview of the individuals, organizations, networks, and communities that shape—or are shaped by—maternal, newborn and child health evidence. Two of the MNC thematic hubs will be presenting their work at the 2026 Cochrane Colloquium in December. By identifying existing and potential interest holders across research, healthcare, policy, implementation, funding, publishing, patient and public involvement, and civil society, the mapping will help us strengthen partnerships, identify gaps and opportunities for engagement, and ensure our work reaches and reflects the diverse communities we serve. It will support more strategic collaboration, communication, and capacity strengthening across the Thematic Group.
The Cochrane Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Thematic Group was represented at the 39th WHO Human Reproduction Program Policy and Coordination Committee on 24–25 March 2026. Discussions focused on future priorities for the World Health Organization’s (WHO) sexual and reproductive health and rights agenda, ensuring alignment with global evidence needs.
The MNC group shares a newsletter update quarterly. Please subscribe to the newsletter here and has established a dedicated LinkedIn page to support communication and engagement activities across the maternal, newborn and child health community Cochrane Maternal, Newborn and Child Health: Posts | LinkedIn.All are welcome!
