Professor Mahmoud F. Fathalla

FIGO is deeply saddened to hear about the death of Professor Mahmoud Fathalla. His magnanimous presence will be profoundly missed.

Professor Fathalla held the post of FIGO President from 1994 to 1997, Vice President from 1985 to 1988, and numerous positions on FIGO’s Executive Board and scientific committees.

In addition to his leadership within FIGO, Professor Fathalla was a renowned doctor and professor of obstetrics and gynaecology. He worked as a manager, advisor and advocate on family planning, reproductive health and safe motherhood for many organisations, including as Director of the World Health Organization’s Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction.

Professor Mahmoud Fathalla will be remembered for his academic prowess, lectures, speeches and bold advocacy in women’s health and rights. Among the many teachings and quotes addressing women’s health through a life course approach, Professor Fathalla will be remembered for his powerful statement that:

Women are not dying because of diseases we cannot treat. They are dying because societies have yet to decide their lives are worth saving.

FIGO’s President, Board of Trustees, staff and wider community extend our heartfelt sympathies to Professor Fathalla’s family, friends and colleagues.

Read the condolence message from Prof Anne-Beatrice Kihara, FIGO President