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. 

 
Buildings destroyed in Gaza, October 2023
Gaza - Israel War

MSF statement on UN Security Council vote for Gaza ceasefire

Statement 25 Mar 2024
 
MSF Flag and stethoscope
War and conflict

Warring parties must ensure safety of staff and patients in Al-Shifa hospital

Article 18 Mar 2024
 
A woman heads for the makeshift market on the outskirts of the Gomgoi IDP camp in Twic, Warrap state, South Sudan
War and conflict

South Sudanese Abyei Box: Violence is still on the move in the communities

Article 15 Mar 2024
 
Job Kamanda
Access to Healthcare

Echoes of Humanity: Saving lives in the face of conflict

Fieldworkers Stories 15 Mar 2024
 
Informal settlement of displaced people
Epidemic

DRC: “We fear a flare up of disease again”

Article 12 Mar 2024
 
Drodro general hospital - Ituri DRC - May 2023
Attacks on medical care

Democratic Republic of Congo: MSF calls for protection of patients, medical facilities and civilians following Drodro hospital attack

Press Release 9 Mar 2024