WISH, WHO report to garner political will to protect healthcare in conflict zones

Doha, Qatar: A research report published at the recently concluded World Innovation Summit (WISH) for Health is expected to garner political will to p...

Doha, Qatar: A research report published at the recently concluded World Innovation Summit (WISH) for Health is expected to garner political will to protect healthcare in conflict zones.

The report ‘In the Line of Fire: Protecting Health in Armed Conflict,’ published as result of a partnership between WISH and World Health Organization (WHO), aims to strengthen diplomatic efforts, raise awareness, and, most importantly, end impunity, said Dr. Rick Brennan Regional Emergency Director for WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office. He is also the main author of the report. 

Speaking to The Peninsula on the sidelines of WISH 2024, Dr. Brennan said that in the backdrop of increasing attacks on healthcare settings in conflict zones, the report outlines key recommendations for stakeholders who can help protect healthcare facilities and workers. 

He emphasised on the need to take forward the report and ultimately translate into a global alliance for the protection of health in armed conflict.

“We hope it will also lead to strengthened and sustained diplomatic efforts, increased education, and greater awareness. Most importantly, we must ensure that impunity ends. Political leaders must step up and declare that enough is enough, and there must be consequences for violating international law,” said Dr. Brennan.