War and conflict

If warring parties see aid organisations as being on one side of a conflict, we are less likely to gain access to those in need and more likely to be attacked.

One of the ways in which we are able to demonstrate our independence to warring parties is to ensure that all our funding for work in conflicts comes from private individuals – we do not accept government grants.

Conflicts, be they international wars or those within countries, can have many consequences.

Fear of violence or persecution uproots entire communities and disrupts access to medical care for those that flee as well as those who stay behind.

Conflicts normally lead to a rise in trauma injuries, but also lead to problems for people needing normal medical care, such as complications with pregnancy or chronic diseases such as diabetes. 

Psychological distress and mental illnesses also generally rise, as can cases of sexual violence.

We try to fill these gaps with highly experienced doctors, nurses, and logisticians, who provide specialised medical care and logistical support.