Medicine and Science from The BMJ How MSF maintains neutrality in conflict zones
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Nov 20, 2024 Christos Christou, the international president of Médecins Sans Frontières, shares insights on the ethical dilemmas faced by healthcare workers in conflict zones, emphasizing the vital role of neutrality and international advocacy. Ara Darzi, a surgeon and executive chair of the WISH conference, discusses the urgent need to tackle antimicrobial resistance, spotlighting funding challenges and the importance of diagnostics. Together, they confront the pressing issues of violence against healthcare and the fight against antibiotic resistance while fostering hope for collaborative solutions.
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Neutrality in Conflict Zones
- MSF maintains neutrality by providing care to all, regardless of affiliation.
- They treat patients as patients, not combatants, and avoid taking sides.
Bearing Witness
- MSF's neutrality doesn't equal silence; they actively bear witness to the suffering they see.
- They combine medical data with patient stories to advocate for change.
Lack of Political Will
- Existing laws and conventions are sufficient to protect healthcare in conflict, but lack enforcement.
- Political will is the missing ingredient to hold parties accountable and ensure adherence.