Stories of Séverine: tales of life and death in a maternity clinic in Afghanistan


Greetings from Khost, Afghanistan
Séverine's story begins with her first visit to the maternity clinic in Khost, a sanctuary in a country haunted by relentless conflict, perpetual crises and the weight of an overburdened health system.

Just a standard day in Khost, Afghanistan
Séverine shares with us what a typical day in the maternity clinic looks like and the challenges that come with it.

Things that matter, especially in Khost
Through firsthand experiences we find out what matters in Khost.

"Rule number one in politics: never invade Afghanistan"
Afghanistan has had a long history of war, and it doesn't seem that that will change any time soon.

The thin line between hope and despair
Giving birth in Khost is often coin toss between life and death.

The bomb attack
In the heart of Afghanistan's turmoil, life in Khost defies the odds and we continue to provide maternal care amidst chaos.

The return of the Taliban
After 20 years the American forces leave Afghanistan. The Taliban are in full control again. What will this mean for women and girls?

Between tea parties and the Taliban: new life and death
The consequences of the Taliban regime become apparent. Meanwhile we struggle with losses and celebrate new life.

Doctors Without Borders
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About Séverine
Séverine Caluwaerts is a gynaecologist / obstetrician at the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp. As a volunteer for Doctors Without Borders, she was active in Sierra Leone, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi and Afghanistan, among others.
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