War and conflict

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. 

 
Distribution of essentials

Central African Republic: MSF teams ramp up support as violence escalates

Article 15 Jan 2021
 
Refugees, Migration and displacement

Ethiopia: MSF provides medical assistance to some of the most affected people in need in Tigray

Article 12 Jan 2021
 
Access to Healthcare

Mali: A patient dies after an MSF ambulance is violently detained

Press Release 8 Jan 2021
 
Access to Healthcare

Central Mali, no choice but to flee

Article 4 Jan 2021
 
Access to Healthcare

A Crisis is Unfolding in Mozambique : Half a million people who have fled violence now struggle to find housing, food and water

Stories from the Frontline 4 Jan 2021
 
Access to Healthcare

Sudan: “Services for the refugees need to increase, otherwise it will be a disaster”

Stories from the Frontline 23 Dec 2020