THE ADAM BUXTON PODCAST EP.260 - NATALIE ROBERTS
Sep 30, 2025
Natalie Roberts, UK Executive Director of Médecins Sans Frontières, shares her insights from the frontlines of humanitarian crises in Yemen and Syria. She discusses MSF's controversial labeling of Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide and highlights the overlooked humanitarian emergencies in Sudan. Natalie humorously recounts providing medical assistance to over-emotional Lana Del Rey fans at Glastonbury, revealing the unique challenges and rewards of festival medicine. Her reflections on negotiating safety in conflict zones and the complexities of humanitarian law offer a gripping perspective on modern aid work.
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Crossing Into Northern Syria
- Natalie describes clandestine crossings from Turkey into rebel-held northern Syria and converting houses into makeshift hospitals.
- She recounts using local taxis, field gates and unmarked clinics to start emergency services quickly.
Humanitarian Work Requires Political Engagement
- MSF must engage politically to secure safety and access, even while staying apolitical in aims.
- Negotiating with armed groups and authorities is essential to keep teams and patients safe.
Triage By Need And Capacity
- Prioritize medical response using triage based on urgent need and available capacity.
- Continually review choices and be ready to change priorities when circumstances shift.
